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Pranayama kosha or Energy Body

Taittiriya Upanishad further says: “Inside this is another body made of life energy. It fills the physical body and takes its shape. Those who treat this vital force as divine experience excellent health and longevity because this energy is the source of physical life.”

This second dimension or kosha is called pranamaya kosha, the energy body, and is the first of the three layers of the Astral Body or Linga Shareera or Sukshma Shareera.

This second kosha is composed of prana, or chi, or ka, or pneuma, or mana, or life force. It is made up of 72,000 nadis, or astral tubes, through which prana, the vital energy, flows. Prana is a Sanskrit word meaning movement, motion or vibration. It is the vital force that produces the subtle vibrations related to breath, and which are the driving force behind the physical aspect of the senses and the operation of the physical body. Prana is the universal principle of energy. It is all the energies in the universe put together, which includes the forces of nature as well as the power within us. It is the life force that enters us at birth, stays and travels within the body and leaves us when we die. Pranamaya kosha is the vital life energy which organises the body parts and provides movement for mental and physical expression. It allows the invisible indweller, our True Self to be able to animate in the external world. At the same time, however, it allows the eternally still, silent center of consciousness to be mistakenly identified as the moving, visible physical body.

Prana is in constant motion throughout life. It is manifest not only in human beings, but also in animals, herbs or trees, oceans, mountains, minerals and bacteria. Even the tiniest part of an atom has prana. This prana is both, :

visible, and

invisible.

Visible prana manifests before you – wherever there is prana there is movement, growth, change and activity, and where there is no prana there is no activity. When we die the body dissipates because it has become completely bereft of prana. Visible prana is manifest right in front of you. After death the body dissipates because there is no prana in it. Also, if pranas are agitated or there is an imbalance, there is imbalance everywhere.

Prana is responsible for the action of the karmendriyas, the organs of action. Indriya means vehicle, tool or sense. Karma means action. There are five karmendriyas:

feet,

hands,

vocal cords,

urinary and

excretory systems.

Through these five karmendriyas you perform five gross actions. Prana is responsible for the action of the karmendriyas, the organs of action – Prana is the force behind them. Also, there has to be coordination between the prana and the indriyas or sense organs. If there is too much prana, then children sometimes become hyperactive. Hyperactivity in the body is due to hyperactivity of the prana. In old age, we become slow due to lack of prana. Pranamaya kosha is the energy in annamaya kosha.

As per Vedic scriptures, there are five types of Prana, located in different parts of the body that support us. These five pranas affect energy through subtle channels. There five pranas are:

prana,

apana,

udana,

samana and

vyana.

These forms of prana control various functions in the physical body. For example, urination, excretion, insemination and childbirth are consequences of apana. Then there are five auxiliary or secondary pranas.

According to the classical tradition, prana enters the womb in the fourth month of pregnancy. When an embryo is developed in the mother’s womb, it is part of the mother’s body and prana. After the third month, the independent or individual pranas manifest in the foetus. That is, from the fourth month, the mother’s prana and the prana of the embryo become two different pranas.

For both a healthy life and the practice of meditation, it is very useful, or essential that this level of our being be trained, regulated, and directed, so that it flows smoothly. In Pranayama and meditation, we become aware of Pranamaya kosha, explore it, and then go inward, to and through the other koshas. At a more realized level, boundaries fade away; every exhalation becomes another’s inhalation and every inhalation is another’s exhalation. This prana is a part of cosmic life. Each and every creature, each and every thing in this world is a part of cosmic life. Prana is the force or energy for all kinds of motion. A Yogi who has mastered the knowledge of Prana also gains mastery over all manifestations of powers in the cosmos.

Refinement and Development of Pranamaya Kosha

Learning to direct and regulate prana is important to maintain health. The nerves and endocrine glands are the physical correlates of the pranic body’s nadis and chakras. Ayurveda says that health issues begin at energetic levels before manifesting physically. Prana gets its nourishment through the air we breathe as well as the food we eat. The lungs and the large intestine are connected to each other. They both supply us with Prana, the lungs because they absorb the essence of the air, and the large intestine absorbs the essence and the nutrition of food. The Prana gets nourished, which in turn nourishes both the body and the mind. It is possible to nourish Prana through the following methods:

Pranamaya kosha is directly influenced through practice of pranayama. It is imperative to have an impeccable technique for Pranayama.

Take sattvic food. It helps energize Pranamaya Kosha.

Practice asanas with an awareness of the breath.

Releasing what you don’t need is as important as adding what you need; spend less time on the activities (or relationships) that dim your inner light.

Practice good intention and repetition; you can change the energy of your inner and outer environment.

Practice mauna (noble silence). Try making meals in silence, or while chanting or singing uplifting mantras.

Mudras connect different nadis; their knowledge and practice can strengthen Prana.

Mantras have a positive influence on nadis. Chant or sing mantras suited to your Pranic body.

p style=”text-align: justify;”>Please contact us to learn more about Yoga. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

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South London SAVY Yoga – Sukshma Yoga or Subtle Yoga

SAVY Yoga has been serving the city of London and surrounding areas since 2011 under the most qualified and experienced faculty in LONDON and CANADA, and one of the most qualified and experienced faculty in the WORLD! To serve the people of London in a better way, instead of serving some run-of-the-mill pseudo-yoga routines, we offer some very useful and healing, authentic Yoga/ Pranayama routines, ranging from gentle to very challenging Yoga, for the beginner to the advanced student alike.

Here, we bring to you an introduction to Yoga classes being taught at our South London SAVY Yoga Studio.

Through demonstration, discussion and experiential movement, you will gain key understanding of proper postures and how to keep your body safe. As common sense dictates, one can function properly only if one is disease-free and is in a healthy state of body, mind and spirit. So, for us, your health and disease-free state comes first of all. Asanas, Pranayama, Mudras, Marmas, Kriyas, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana – our Yoga is much more than mere gymnastics and sauna!

South London Yoga Classes at SAVY bring to you the taste, values and expertise of the true traditional Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga from India. Inspired adherence to the eight pillars or steps of yoga bestow one with a calm mind and fit body and lead one towards attaining an emancipated life. In more physical or materialistic terms, Yoga is more than capable of keeping one physically and mentally fit and disease-free. It has become the new hot and favoured way to sweat it out for better health. SAVY Yoga is a humble step in that direction.

Sukshma Yoga or Subtle Yoga

Sukshma Yoga -The Yoga for Everyone, or Subtle Yoga,or Micro Yoga, is one of the most ancient and relatively little known form of Yoga. This is ‘The Yoga for Everyone’! These exercises are simple, short and subtle. They open up subtle energy channels and you can feel a palpable difference even in a very short while.

Sukshma Yoga can help you relax within a few minutes. Its effect penetrates subtle levels at the physical, mental and spiritual levels. This consists of gentle stretching and coordinated breathing, and breathing exercises, that result in deep relaxation. It includes easy exercises for the eyes, tongue and jaws, neck, hands, feet, knees, ankles and hips. In Sukshma Yoga the whole body, from head to toe, is treated, relaxed and rejuvenated. These exercises also stimulate, balance and energise the Marma points and Chakras. External and internal body parts undergo deep transformation in this type of Yoga. These are scientific exercises that not only make us strong and supple, but also help remove impurities from the body and improve the memory, concentration and will-power. Sukshma Yoga routine includes more of those physical yogic movements which almost all of the people would be able to do. Hasta mudras or hand postures are also included.

These classes are suitable even for those who have not done any form of yoga or exercise before and are afraid of trying yogic postures. The good thing about yoga is that there is something for everybody regardless of body weight, physical limitations/strength or flexibility. With the regular practice of these gentle movements you would be amazed to see how the yoga practice is helping you not only in making a difference in your lives but also helping in overcoming so many health issues. Regular practice of this type of Yoga ensures a long and healthy life. People of every age, make, fitness level,belief, faith can do and receive the benefits of these exercises that can be very comfortably and safely practised. These exercises also make you ready for getting deeper into yoga and meditation in a very gentle way.

Our Beginners’ Level I classes are based on Sukshma Yoga or Subtle Yoga. You can learn Sukshma Yoga at SAVY under one of the most qualified and experienced faculty in North America!

You are most welcome to learn this routine and stay healthy.

These special classes are offered regularly every month.

Here are required details of the classes:

Time: On Mondays: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Where: SAVY International South London Studio at 119-D Exeter Road London ON N6L 1A4

Formats: 1 Class every week for One Month (4 Class package)

Batches: One batch per month.

Commitment: A commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency). Missed classes will not be compensated in any way.

Cost: Total cost is $72 for one month program.

Please check the exact schedule and time below.

Established benefits of Yoga:

Improved General Health

Longevity

Anxiety Relief

Stronger Bones

Healthier Heart

Healthy Weight

Lower Stress Levels

Increased Flexibility

Lower Blood Pressure

Improved Lung Capacity

Improved Brain Function

Greater Sense of Balance

Better mind-body connexion

Better Sexual Function & Libido

Lower Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetics

Relief from Chronic Back Pain and Neck Pain

Better over-all quality of life & much more…

The salient features of London Yoga Classes of SAVY Healing Yoga are:

Comprehensive, authentic, world class teaching and knowledge-base in all aspects of Yoga

Authentic Ashtanaga and Vinyasa Yoga training based on true, traditional Yoga from India

Please contact us to learn more about Yoga. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

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South London SAVY Yoga – Yoga for Osteoporosis

SAVY Yoga has been serving the city of London and surrounding areas since 2011 under the most qualified and experienced faculty in LONDON and CANADA, and one of the most qualified and experienced faculty in the WORLD! To serve the people of London in a better way, instead of serving some run-of-the-mill pseudo-yoga routines, we offer some very useful and healing, authentic Yoga/ Pranayama routines, ranging from gentle to very challenging Yoga, for the beginner to the advanced student alike.

Here, we bring to you an introduction to Yoga classes being taught at our South London SAVY Yoga Studio.

Through demonstration, discussion and experiential movement, you will gain key understanding of proper postures and how to keep your body safe. As common sense dictates, one can function properly only if one is disease-free and is in a healthy state of body, mind and spirit. So, for us, your health and disease-free state comes first of all. Asanas, Pranayama, Mudras, Marmas, Kriyas, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana – our Yoga is much more than mere gymnastics and sauna!

South London Yoga Classes at SAVY bring to you the taste, values and expertise of the true traditional Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga from India. Inspired adherence to the eight pillars or steps of yoga bestow one with a calm mind and fit body and lead one towards attaining an emancipated life. In more physical or materialistic terms, Yoga is more than capable of keeping one physically and mentally fit and disease-free. It has become the new hot and favoured way to sweat it out for better health. SAVY Yoga is a humble step in that direction.

Yoga for Osteoporosis

Yoga for Osteoporosis specifically addresses the problems of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Osteoporosis means an increased porosity of bones – a disorder that thins and weakens bones, making them more porous. The consequent danger is possible break, which is when many people discover they have had this ‘silent’ disease for some time. Osteopenia, or low bone density, is a precursor to osteoporosis that puts one at an increased risk of fracture.

For bone health, bone density as well as the structure of bone is important. Yoga not only helps grow bone mass, but also may stimulate the formation of a bone structure that is able to resist greater amounts of pressure, as well as many different types of challenges, because yoga poses pull and stretch the bones from every conceivable angle. There are other important ways in which yoga benefits people with osteoporosis, such as, improving balance, muscular strength, range of motion and coordination, lessening anxiety etc. Bringing down the level of stress hormones is an important factor which is achieved through Yoga. All these factors also help reduce the risk of falling.

Yoga for Osteoporosis includes Yoga postures which are of immense benefit in prevention of Osteoporosis or Osteopenia. The poses selected are such as can be done by everyone. These are based on classical Hatha Yoga postures, mindfulness and breathing exercises. Not all yoga postures are suitable for Yoga for Osteoporosis. This specific routine includes suitable asanas, mindfulness, mudras as well as breath control exercises which help in prevention of osteoporosis and osteopenia.

As one ages, a lack of flexible joints in the body increases the risk of pain. Exercises included in this routine also take care of that. This routine, in fact, increases one’s ability to perform other forms of yoga by having better lubricated, flexible joints. This also creates a better sense of balance and peace of mind.

Yoga for Osteoporosis routine educates the connective tissues of the body to stretch, which , in turn, stimulates periosteum to produce bony tissue. The postures focus more on neck, back, hips, thighs and legs. Focus on these tissues has a better effect on stretching and exercising of the bone and joints areas of the body.

This type of practice is beneficial to a wide variety of people. People of every age can do and receive the benefits of these exercises. These exercises also make you ready for getting deeper into yoga and meditation in a very subtle way.

This routine is suitable even for eating disorders, inpatient drug treatment centres, drug addiction rehab centres, or even for those seeking pain treatment and trauma recovery.

With the regular practice of this kind of yoga, you would be amazed to see how the yoga practice helps you not only in making a difference in your lives but also helps in overcoming so many health issues. Regular practice of Yoga ensures a long and healthy life.

You are most welcome to learn this routine and stay healthy.

This classes are offered regularly every month.

Here are required details of the classes:

Time: On Thursday: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Where: SAVY International South London Studio at 119-D Exeter Road London ON N6L 1A4

Formats: 1 Class every week for One Month (4 Class package)

Batches: One batch per month.

Commitment: A commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency). Missed classes will not be compensated in any way.

Cost: Total cost is $72 for one month program.

Please check the exact schedule and time below.

Benefits of Yoga for Osteoporosis

Yoga for Osteoporosis improves the body in a variety of ways. These may include:

Better bone and joint health

Flexibility of the body’s connective tissues and joints

Greater strength

Greater stamina

Regulated energy levels

Improved health

Feeling calm and balanced

Slowed signs of aging

Deeper relaxation

Stress levels lowered

Improved meditation

Improved practice of other forms of yoga

Established benefits of Yoga:

Improved General Health

Longevity

Anxiety Relief

Stronger Bones

Healthier Heart

Healthy Weight

Lower Stress Levels

Increased Flexibility

Lower Blood Pressure

Improved Lung Capacity

Improved Brain Function

Greater Sense of Balance

Better mind-body connexion

Better Sexual Function & Libido

Lower Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetics

Relief from Chronic Back Pain and Neck Pain

Better over-all quality of life & much more…

The salient features of London Yoga Classes of SAVY Healing Yoga are:

Comprehensive, authentic, world class teaching and knowledge-base in all aspects of Yoga

Authentic Ashtanaga and Vinyasa Yoga training based on true, traditional Yoga from India

Please contact us to learn more about Yoga. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

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Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

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Annamaya Kosha or Physical Body

Taittiriya Upanishad says: “Human beings consist of a material body made up from the food they eat; those who care for this body are nourished by the universe itself.”

This first dimension or kosha is called annamaya kosha, the physical body or Sthula Shareera.

Anna means food. Satvik meaning of anna is ‘the essence of earth’. Water, food grains, fruits and vegetables are all the products of earth; from this, milk, ghee and flesh is made and all of this is considered anna. Physical body is made up of anna and it grows and gets strengthened with anna and later, after the death of physical body, merges with the earth. This outermost of the koshas is called the sheath of food, or Annamaya kosha. Annamaya kosha is the controller, cause, producer and consumer (sanchalaka, kaarana, utpadaka, and upbhokta) of physical body but is still different from physical body. Living at this level, man identifies himself with a mass of skin, flesh, fat, bones, and filth, whereas a man of viveka (discrimination) realizes his own Self as distinct from the physical body. Out of all koshas, annamaya kosha has the most dense and slow vibrational frequency. This body cannot exist without other koshas or bodies (the pranamaya, manomaya, vigyanamaya, and anandamaya koshas), yet for the most part, it remains barely activated in regards to its highest evolutionary potential. The physical body, the coarsest of sheaths in comparison to the faculties of the atma (the Self), is indispensable for evolution and Self Realization, because only within this can all chakras fully function.

This physical body is made up of the Panchmahabhutas – the five primordial elements, viz.,

Akash (vacuum),

Vayu (air),

Agni (fire),

Jal (water), and

Prithvi (earth)

This Annamaya Kosha passes through six stages:

birth,

subsistence,

growth,

maturity,

decay, and

death.

Gross body is simply the vehicle of all the other koshas during physical incarnation. Annamaya and physical manifestation of Pranamaya Kosh reside in Sthula Shareera or Gross (physical) body. Gross body needs gross food, drink and air which it gets from Annamaya and Pranamaya Kosha. At death the physical body perishes and its five constituent elements dissolve with the Source.

In Hatha Yoga practice, we train this aspect of ourselves, take care of it, and nurture it, so that we can both enjoy our external lives and go inward without it being an obstacle during meditation. In meditation, we become aware of Annamaya kosha, explore it, and then go inward, to and through other koshas.

Annamaya kosha can be sattvic, rajasic or tamasic. The word sattva means harmony, balance and tranquillity, where you create a balance between activity and peace. Rajas means dynamic, active, violent. Tamas means dull and inert. Through the hatha yoga shatkriyas, you develop a sattvic annamaya kosha and when annamaya kosha becomes sattvic, the emission of energy is much greater.

In modern science it is said that all the time, the whole day and night, physical bodies exchange energy with the surroundings. Of course, you cannot see it, but scientifically it has been seen that just like a pendulum swings, every body is emitting or throwing away atoms or sub-atomic particles, and receiving them. This activity gives rise to energy waves. The sattvic body creates longer-reaching waves, a tamasic body perhaps no waves at all, while a rajasic body has variable waves.

When these atoms or sub-atomic particles leave your body and come back, there is a period of rest, just like when a pendulum when it goes to the left and then turns and goes to the right, there is a moment of rest. Similarly, when you do pranayama, between inhalation and exhalation there is a point of rest called kumbhak or shunyak, depending on when it comes. It is a very short period. In this short period, the body transmits energy which is sattvic, rajasic or tamasic.

Refinement and Development of Annamaya Kosha

This is possible through the following methods:

Proper diet: Sattvic foods, like a wholesome, lacto-vegetarian diet, provides nourishment for the body in an optimal way. The consumption of tamasic foods like meat, alcohol and drugs weakens our vitality and fills us with negative vibrations.

p style=”text-align: justify;”>Please contact us to learn more about Yoga. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

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Koshas – Yogic Sheaths of Our Being

Over thousands of years, yogis used various practices of Yoga to experientially understand the way we are, and function, vis a vis this whole universe. One of the important basic concepts which helps us understand this is that of Koshas. The Yoga path of Self-realization is one of progressively moving inward, through each of those five levels, so as to experience the purity at the eternal center of consciousness, while at the same time allowing that purity to animate through our individuality. These five levels are called koshas, which literally means sheaths. Yoga defines our being as having five layers or sheaths, each one contained within the other, like peels/ layers of an onion, or Russian Dolls. These sheaths cover every aspect of our being, from the grossest to the subtlest.

Yoga tells us that you are not just the body you perceive with the eyes, nor are you just blood, bones, marrow, muscles, nerves and the different organs that keep you alive. You are much more than that. What you see of yourself with the eye is sustained by what you cannot see; if the unseen part of you ceased to exist, the seen part of you would wither and die. This seen and unseen part of you is composed of the five koshas. The aim of all the practices of yoga, without exception, is to energize and awaken these koshas until ultimately you experience awakening in vigyanamaya kosha. That alone is the purpose of yoga. When we practice yoga – whether it’s asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra, or even karma yoga – we are having an impact on one or more of these layers of the body. The practices of yoga work to release blockages in the many layers of the body. Understanding these basic concepts helps us to figure out why sometimes we feel stuck in our practice, or feel that we are not making any progress.

Consciousness

Consciousness is the ultimate reality out of which mind and matter proceed. It is the state or quality of awareness, or, of being aware of an external object or something within oneself.It has been defined as sentience, awareness, subjectivity, the ability to experience or to feel, wakefulness, having a sense of selfhood, and the executive control system of the mind. Many philosophers believe that there is a broadly shared underlying intuition about what consciousness is.

At one time consciousness was viewed with skepticism by many scientists, but in recent years it has become a significant topic of research in psychology, neuropsychology and neuroscience. The primary focus is on understanding and determining the neural and psychological correlates of consciousness. In medicine, consciousness is assessed by observing a patient’s arousal and responsiveness, and can be seen as a continuum of states ranging from full alertness and comprehension, through disorientation, delirium, loss of meaningful communication, and finally loss of movement in response to painful stimuli.

In Yoga, individual consciousness is considered a partial expression of cosmic consciousness. Essentially, cosmic consciousness and individual consciousness are one; only subjectivity separates them. Consciousness exists at various levels from minerals to man. Of all existing organisms that express themselves through behaviour, the human organism is the most highly evolved. It is capable of self-expression and the realization of The Truth beyond the realm of sensory perception. With the help of memory, imagination, intuition and discrimination, the human organism can understand laws inherent in nature and use them for growth and development.

Expression of Consciousness

When consciousness desires expression as an organism, it needs tools to control and work with the physical body. In general, we have two major aspects:

changeable, the feminine, and,

unchangeable, the masculine.

This is illustrated by the Shiva and Shakti as a playing couple, representing the masculine and the feminine aspects respectively.

Shiva, the masculine, represents the divine lover, and, Shakti, the feminine, represents the energy and the beloved. She wants to play a game. She creates a world of her own and invites Shiva inside. Shiva says that he is never changing, so he cannot live in Shakti’s ever-changing world! Shakti suggests, “You can be the centre of everything, and the centre never changes, everything around it changes. You can stay in your eternal bliss in the centre, and around you, I will put a network of my shakti (power) which will be a conduit between you and the outside world. That way you will not have to do anything – you can remain never changing and I can remain ever changing and we can have fun!”

Shiva agrees and the game begins…!

Pancha-Koshas – The Five Sheaths

Taittiriya Upanishad says:

Human beings consist of a material body made up from the food they eat. Those who care for this body are nourished by the universe itself.

Inside this is another body made of life energy. It fills the physical body and takes its shape. Those who treat this vital force as divine experience excellent health and longevity because this energy is the source of physical life.

Within the vital force is yet another body, this one made of thought energy. It fills the two denser bodies and has the same shape. Those who understand and control the mental body are no longer afflicted by fear.

Deeper still lies another body comprised of intellect. It permeates the three denser bodies and takes up the same form. Those who establish their awareness here, free themselves from unhealthy thoughts and actions, and develop the self-control necessary to achieve their goals.

Hidden inside it is yet a subtler body, composed of pure joy. It pervades the other bodies and shares the same shape. It is experienced as happiness, delight, equanimity and bliss.

In Yoga philosophy, the body, mind and spirit are understood as one continuum. Indian philosophers spoke about consciousness: the bodies as described above in Taittiriya Upanishad are known as koshas (sheaths). These five koshas are:

Annamaya Kosha or Physical Sheath,

Pranamaya Kosha or Energy Sheath,

Manomaya Kosha or Mental Sheath,

Vigyanamaya Kosha or Wisdom Sheath, and

Anandamaya Kosha or Equanimity or Bliss

In some systems there is a sixth sheath, the hiranyagarbha kosha. According to Vedanta, the wise man should discriminate between atman (the self) and the koshas, which are non-self.

Expansion of Consciousness, the path of Self-realization in Yoga, is the one of progressively moving inward, through each of those layers, so as to experience the purity at the center of consciousness, while at the same time allowing that purity to animate through individuality.

Koshas and Shariras

These five koshas belong to or co-relate with three bodies that constitute your being. These Tri-Shareera or three bodies are:

Physical Body or Gross Body or Sthula Shareera which has only one layer of Annamaya Kosha

Astral Body or Linga Shareera or Sukshma Shareera.Subtle Body is Astral Body except a part of Pranic Sheath. Every living being has an astral body. This is connected to the physical body by a subtle thread along which vital energy flows. When this cord is cut, the astral body departs and the physical body dies. The astral body is composed of three layers:

Layer one: Pranamaya Kosha or Pranic Sheath, much subtler than the food sheath, it is often spoken of as the etheric double. It is made up of 72,000 nadis, or astral tubes, through which prana, the vital energy, flows.

Layer two: Manomaya Kosha or Mental Sheath, comprising the automatic mind, as well as the instinctive and subconscious regions. This is where we carry on the automatic functions of our daily lives; it is very jumpy by nature, as it is constantly bombarded by inputs from the five senses.

Layer three: Vigyanamaya Kosha or Intellectual or Wisdom Sheath, the intellect controls and guides the automatic mind. Discrimination and decision making take place here and pass down to the grosser sheath.

Causal Body or Karan Shareera which has only one layer of Anandamaya Kosha. This stores all of our karmas, samskaras and impressions of many, many incarnations is the one we encounter when we speak about awakening in vigyanamaya kosha.

The experiences of evolution through different ‘yonis’, pleasant and unpleasant, are stored in the vigyanamaya kosha. In order to step into the arena of spiritual ecstasy, you have to pass through this zone and face what is stored there eye to eye. You simply cannot avoid it, just as you cannot avoid your thoughts or your feelings and dreams. The practices of yoga can accelerate this process and accomplish this in a systematic and graded manner. It is only when the awakening occurs in vigyanamaya and that experience is stabilized, that the transcendental experiences of ecstasy and bliss related to anandamaya kosha arise in the consciousness.

In modern psychology, the causal body or karana sharira is known as the realm of the unconscious; it may also be termed as psyche’ of man. You cannot know what is stored there until there is awakening in vigyanamaya kosha. When you experience awakening in manomaya kosha, you are still within the realm of buddhi or intellect. Everything that you experience will be within the fold of logic and reason and thus there is a degree of control of the experiences and their outcome. It’s in vigyanamaya kosha that you go beyond the level of the mind.

Every day you have three types of experiences:

The waking experience in which you experience through your senses and mind.

Dream, in which you do not experience through the senses, but through your subconscious mind.

Sleep, in which there is no knowledge of time and space, no knowledge about yourself or about anything in sleep, but when you get up in the morning, you know that you slept well the night before.

So every day, the individual self undergoes these three experiences alternately. Each experience relates to a particular field. Whenever your individual self goes to one particular field, realm, dimension or kosha, it has one experience, and as your individual self changes the kosha, it has another experience.

Koshas and Lokas

The complete Gayatri mantra tells us about the relation of koshas and lokas:

OM, the primordial sound, resides in all elements of the universe. It permeates the earth (bhuh), water (bhuvah), fire (swaha), air (mahah), ether (janah), intelligence (tapah)
and consciousness (satyam). We invoke and meditate on the glory of that Being who has produced this universe, may He enlighten our minds.

Lokas are the planes of consciousness one experiences as the awareness gains ascent from annamaya to pranamaya to manomaya to vigyanamaya. The sapta or seven lokas, as given in the above mantra are:

bhu – earth

bhuvah – water

swah – fire

maha – air

janah – ether

tapah – intelligence/ intellect, and

satyam – consciousness

While bhu, bhuvah and swah, the earthly, intermediate and divine planes, are related to annamaya, pranamaya and manomaya koshas, maha, the plane of siddhas, janah, the plane of rishis and munis, and tapah, the plane of liberated souls, relate to awakening, stabilization and illumination of vigyanamaya. Satymais the loka of ultimate bliss or consciousness.

Please contact us to learn more about Yoga. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

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Drishti – Focused Gaze in Yoga

Control of drishti, or gaze, has been taught in Yoga for thousands of years. On a simple level, drishti uses a specific gazing direction for the eyes to control attention. Focusing gaze helps in focusing mind. In every asana in yoga, students are taught to direct their gaze to one of nine specific points, but the full meaning of drishti isn’t limited to its value in asana.

In Sanskrit, drishti means gaze; it can also mean a vision, a point of view, or intelligence and wisdom. The use of drishti in asana serves both as a training technique and as a metaphor for focusing consciousness toward a vision of oneness. Drishti organizes our perceptual apparatus to recognize and overcome the limits of ‘normal’ vision. One of the main purposes of yoga is to bring the consciousness to one point so that it isn’t constantly wandering from one thing to another. In every posture of the yoga series there is a drishti, or gaze, so that the mind remains focused and concentrated. A drishti encourages an inward looking attitude and discourages students from looking around the room or being distracted by non-yogic thoughts.

Incorporating drishtis into every posture is an advanced practice. Students usually master co-ordinated breath and movement (vinyasa) first and then gradually incorporate more bandha and drishti work into their practice. Sometimes in meditation and pranayama practices the eyes are held half-open and the gaze is turned up toward the third eye or the tip of the nose. In the Bhagavad Gita (VI.13), Krishna instructs Arjuna, “One should hold one’s body and head erect in a straight line and stare steadily at the tip of the nose.” When using the inner gaze, sometimes called Antaric Drishti, the eyelids are closed and the gaze is directed in and up toward the light of the third eye. As Iyengar says, “The closure of the eyes directs the sadhaka (practitioner) to meditate upon Him who is verily the eye of the eye… and the life of life.”

Throughout the history of yoga, clear, true perception has been both the practice and goal of yoga. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna, “You are not able to behold me with your own eyes; I give thee the divine eye, behold my Lordly yoga” (11.8). In Yoga Sutras, the classic exposition of yoga, Patanjali points out that in viewing the world, we tend not to see reality clearly, but instead get deluded by the error of false perception. This basic misidentification is called avidya (ignorance), and its counterpart, vidya, is our true identity. In Chapter II, verse 6, he says that we confuse the act of seeing with the true perceiver: purusha, the Self. He continues, in verse 17, to say that this confusion about the true relationship between the act of seeing, the object seen, and the identity of the Seer is the root cause of suffering. His cure for this suffering is to look correctly into the world around us.

The correct use of tristhana – breath, bandha and drishti in yoga practice is said to bring us closer to reality and unleash the power of the five elements:

The element of earth is activated by moola bandha, producing foundation, stability and strength.

The element of water is found in the fluidity of flowing posture work, or vinyasa, and in the sweat produced by the practice.

The element of air is linked to by the continuous and uninterrupted flow of ujjayi breath in and out of the body and the feeling of lightness created by the application of bandhas.

The element of fire is found by connecting to the heat of the practice, particularly at manipura chakra and throughout the body.

The element of ether or space is found during the postures as students seek to open up the body and find new levels of stretch and flexibility.

Yoga brings about transformation on a physical, emotional, mental and energetic level. When the above elements are incorporated into a correct practice, the process of positive change starts. The positive transformation of the body and mind by yoga is seen as the fruit of practice and a reward for working with dedication and discipline at this demanding system of asana practice.

Drishti, or focused gaze, is a means for developing concentrated intention. It relates to the fifth limb of yoga (pratyahara) concerning sense withdrawal, as well as the sixth limb (dharana) relating to concentration.

Each yoga asana is associated with a particular dṛiṣhṭi. There are nine drishtis (when you count both Parshva Dṛiṣhṭis, left and right sides, as one). The practice of drishti develops concentration—and teaches you to see the world as it really is.

Eyes are the doors which connect the inside mind to the outside world. If the eyes are totally fixed, the mind really stops; it cannot wander. The eyes are the most delicate. That is why they can be more tense than any other part, and with the eyes in tension, the whole mind is tense. The eyes are just doors to the mind. We are predominantly visual creatures. Where our eyes are directed, our attention follows. Our attention is the most valuable thing we have, and the visible world can be an addictive, over-stimulating, and spiritually debilitating lure. When we get caught up in the outer appearance of things, our prana (vitality) flows out and gets dissipated. Allowing the eyes to wander creates distractions that lead us further away from focus.

By controlling and directing the focus of eyes, and then of attention, we can control the focus of our mind.

Besides its use in asana, drishti is applied in other yogic practices. In the kriya of trataka, the eyes are held open until tears flow. This technique not only gives the eyes a wash but also challenges the student to practice overriding unconscious urges – in this case, the urge to blink.

Our eyes can only see objects in front of us that reflect the visible spectrum of light, but yogis seek to view an inner reality not normally visible. With practice, we become aware of how our brains let us see only what we want to see. Often our opinions, prejudices, and habits prevent us from seeing the reality. Drishti is a technique for seeing correctly the world around us. Used in this way, it becomes a technique for removing the ignorance that obscures this true vision, a technique that allows us to see oneness in everything.

Nine Types of Drishti

Angusthamadhye

For Anguṣṭhamadhye drishṭi, meaning ‘to the middle of the thumb, the practitioner looks to the thumb.

Examples of asanas which employ Aṅguṣṭhamadhye as their dṛiṣhṭi can be found in the Surya Namaskara vinyasas.

Bhrumadhye

The Bhrumadhye drishṭi, meaning ‘to the middle of the eyebrows/brow, has the gaze set at the ‘third eye’, which is right between the eyebrows. In order to do this, the eyes are closed half way. This purportedly stimulates the olfactory and optic nerves, consequently awakening the autonomic and central nervous systems. It soothes the cranial nerves and aids concentration, and helps awaken kundalini shakti.

It is advised that caution be taken as prolonged or incorrect practice may cause problems for the eye muscles or nervous system. Initial practice is often done for only seconds at a time, but is gradually increased.

An example of a vinyasa which includes the Bhrumadhye dṛiṣhṭi in its practice is Surya Namaskara.

Nasagre

The Nasagre drishṭi, meaning ‘to the tip of the nose’, has the eyes fixed on the tip of the nose. Purportedly strengthens the eye muscles.

Keep the body pose firm, in Padmasana if possible, and centre the gaze at the tip of the nose. In the later stages, it can be practised even with the closed eyes. The process of gazing at the tip of the nose without fluttering the eyelids, helps to achieve the concentration of the mind.

While learning it can be performed even for a minute or two at a stretch. Later, it may be practised for longer duration.

This helps achieve the concentration of the brain fast and with ease.

Hastagrahe

The Hastagrahe drishti, generally meaning ‘the taking of the hand’ or ‘the putting of the hand to’, or (in the context of dṛiṣhṭi) ‘to the tips of the hand’, involves looking at the (usually extended) tips or palm of the hand.

Utthita Trikonasana, and its twisted partner Parivrtta Trikonasana are two examples of asanas which use Hastagraha dṛiṣhṭi.

Parshva

Parshva drishti, involves looking to the left or right side.

Urdhva

Urdhva drishti has the eyes pointing upwards, to the sky.

Nabhichakre

The navel is the center of focus for the Nabhichakre drishti, meaning ‘to the (magical) navel-circle’.

Adho-Mukha-Shvanasana uses the Nabhichakre drishti.

Padayoragre

Padayoragre drishti, meaning ‘to the tips of the feet’, is gazing to the toes.

Basis of Drishti

The source of drishtis in yoga is limbs 5 and 6 from the eight limbs of yoga. The 5th limb of yoga pratyahara concerns sense withdrawal. To avoid the delusion and suffering caused by preoccupation with sense objects as described in the Maitri Upanishad, sense withdrawal is practiced in order to help the practitioner become ‘centered’. According to tantric philosophy, keeping ‘centered’ madhya will eventually suspend the mind and prana, allowing recognition of bhairava, or device consciousness.

The sixth limb of yoga dharana (concentration), includes maintaining drishti during yoga practice in order to ensure dhyana (meditation) will occur.

Variation Between Styles

There may be differences between different styles regarding how drishti is practiced and which ones are used for specific asanas, however drishti is a primary part of Hatha Yoga, Gyana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Raja Yoga traditions.

In Practice

As with many Yogic techniques, with drishti there is a danger of mistaking the technique for the goal. Dedicate your use of the body (including the eyes) to transcend your identification with it. So when you look at an object during your practice, don’t focus on it with a hard gaze. Instead, use a soft gaze, looking through it toward a vision of cosmic unity. Soften your focus to send your attention beyond outer appearance to inner essence.

In general, practitioners should use the various bahya (external) gazing points during more externally oriented yoga practices, including asanas, kriyas (cleansing practices), seva (the service work of karma yoga), and bhakti (devotion); use the antaric (internal) gaze to enhance contemplative and meditative practices. If you find yourself closing the eyes during any practice and focusing on the dramas or perplexities of life instead of being able to maintain a neutral, detached focus, re-establish an outer gaze. On the other hand, if the outer gaze becomes a distraction to your concentration, perhaps an inner-directed correction is necessary.

Constant application of drishti develops ekagrata, single-pointed focus. When you restrict your visual focus to one point, your attention doesn’t wander from object to object. Moreover, it becomes much easier for you to notice the internal wanderings of your attention and maintain balance in mind as well as body.

Drishti Gives The True View

A Yogi uses a vision comprised of viveka (discrimination between ‘real view’ and ‘unreal, apparent view’) and vairagya (detachment from a mistaken identification with either the instrument of seeing or that which is seen). Charged with yogic vision, we see our true Self. As we gaze at others, we perceive our own form, which is Love itself. We see their suffering as our own; our heart is filled with compassion for the struggles of all the souls. The yogic gaze emerges from an intense desire to achieve the highest goal of unitive consciousness, rather than from egoistic motives that create separation, limitation, judgment, and suffering.

Like all yogic practices, drishti uses the gifts of a human body and mind as a starting place for connecting with our full potential. When we clear our vision of the veils of habits, opinions, ideas, and their false projections about what is real and what is false, we gaze beyond outer differences toward the absolute Truth of internal oneness.

Please contact us to learn more about Yoga. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

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SANSKRIT WORD ROOTS OF ASANA NAMES

MAKING THEM EASIER TO UNDERSTAND

If you are not sure what to do when the teacher calls for “Utkatasana”, or, can’t quite tell “Hasta padangusthasana” apart from “Chaturanga Dandasana”, or, not clearly visualising “Prasarita Padottanasana”, or can’t get your mouth around “Utthitta Chaturanga Dandasaana”, here is some help!

What is in a Name!

Two basic things make identification of asanas (poses) easier:

String of Pearls

First, you must know that those long Sanskrit words are in fact like strings of pearls. This is something peculiar to Sanskrit. For example, Paschimottanasana has 4 words in it:

Paschima (West or backside of the body);

Utt (intense)

tana (stretch);

Asana (pose).

Learning to identify the smaller words within the long name makes it easier not only to recognize but also helps to pronounce.

Common Mother Language

The second important point is that, in English (as well as other languages), we use words that are distant cousins to Sanskrit.

According to linguists, there are nineteen families of languages in the world, and the languages of the western world have developed from one original tongue. No written record exists of this mother tongue, but strong similarities between words in different western languages, called Indo-European languages, point to a common origin. With the demise of Aryan Invasion Theory (AIT), newer theories have come up, but here is an indicative chart according to accepted theories at present:

Many opinions are afloat even about the age of the Sanskrit. The oldest form of Sanskrit is Rigvedic (or Vedic)Sanskrit; so, some estimates can be made about the age of Sanskrit from the age of Vedas. Various postulates in vogue are:

The modern linguists place the age of the first book of Vedas, the Rig Veda, at about 1800 B.C., placing Sanskrit at 3,800 years of age.

Astronomical references in the Vedas, however, provide some broad approximations that help date the beginning of the tradition. Some Vedic notices mark the beginning of the year at the vernal equinox in Orion; this was the case around 4500 B.C. This places Sanskrit at 6,500 years of age.

Atreya, a descendant of Hindu sage Atri, was a well-known Ayurvedic expert from 6th century BCE. Having lived in India for many years, he stated in Practical Atreya, “Ayurveda has very old roots, long before recorded history. Hinduism is a much later manifestation of the Vedic culture. Theoral tradition states that the first of the Vedas was composed about 40,000 years ago. This comes from my personal (Atreya’s) dialogs with yogis and teachers in India. The oral traditions are still very much alive in India, when valuable information is passed orally from teacher to student”. This account implies that Ayurveda, and Sanskrit, have existed for approximately 42,000 years.

Some Indian Vedic scholars believe that creation, and so, Sanskrit – the divine language, is more than 2 billion years old.

Even according to first postulate, the oldest languages of the Indo-European family are Sanskrit (1800 B.C.), Greek (800 B.C.) and Latin (500 B.C.) French is a direct descendant of Latin, and about half of English words come from French. The Anglo-Saxon side of English, related to German, is also part of the big Indo-European family. According to Indian scriptures, Vedic language, which is the mother of Sanskrit, is said to be the mother of all languages.

One day in yoga class, this very obvious link was pointed out to me. I was explaining to the students that the asana they were doing was Janushirasana, and further expanded that janu meant knee and shir meant head. One student pointed out immediately that in French, the word for knee is genou, and is similarly pronounced like janu. There are so many other similar sounding words in languages : mother is ‘matri’ in Sanskrit, brother is ‘bhrata’, mrta is Sanskrit for dead or corpse and, in French, mort means death or dead and then goes on into English to show up again in mortuary (a place for the dead). This is a long list….

The Names of Asanas

Sanskrit Alphabets

Since the late 19th century, Sanskrit has been written mostly with the Devanagari alphabets. However it has also been written with all the other alphabets of India, except Gurmukhi and Tamil, and with other alphabets such as Thai and Tibetan. The Grantha, Sharda and Siddham alphabets are used only for Sanskrit. Since the late 18th century, Sanskrit has also been written with the Latin alphabet. The most commonly used system is the International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration (IAST), which was been the standard for academic work since 1912.

Devanagari alphabets for Sanskrit

Vowels and vowel diacritics (ghosha)

Consonants (vyanjana)

Conjunct consonants (sanyoga)

There are about a thousand conjunct consonants, most of which combine two or three consonants. There are also some with four-consonant conjuncts and at least one well-known conjunct with five consonants. Here are some of the commonly-used conjuncts:

Pronunciation.

Do your best, keeping in mind that intention is important. Sanskrit is an implosive language – when you say Sanskrit words, the sound vibrations influence marmas, nadis and chakras.

Pronunciation of Sanskrit alphabets can be guttural, palatal, cerebral, dental or labial:

Word Roots for Names of Asanas

The word-roots for names of asanas are mostly from four categories:

anatomy

animals

sages and deities, and

shapes of objects.

Additionally, names of poses are further broken down into numbers and characteristics of the pose. As we get acquainted with some of these basic translations within the asana, then the longer names of asanas start to become easily comprehensible.

Anatomy:

Pada: foot/ leg (pied in French means foot, while pedestrian in English denotes someone on foot)

Hasta: hand

Anguli: fingers

Angustha: big toe

Janu: knee

Shira or Shirsha: head

Mukha: face

Karna: ear

Jathara: stomach

Anga: limb

Bhuja: arm

Sarvanga: (sarva) whole (ang) body

Shava: corpse

Prana: breath/ lifeforce

Pashchima: west direction (back side of body)

Purva: east direction (front side of body)

Animals:

Shvana: dog

Bheka: frog

Baka: crow

Ushtra: camel

Go: cow

bhujanga: snake/ serpent

kapota: pidgeon/ dove

kurma: turtle

matsya: fish

shalabha: locust/ grasshopper

Sages and Deities:

Bharadvaja: a sage; also the father of famous archer, Drona, who trained the cousins who would later became rivals and fight the famous war Mahabharata, of which Bhagwad Geeta is an excerpt.

Garuda: was the king of the eagles; Garuda once provided transportation and carried Lord Vishnu to the aid of devotee, Gajendra who was in a life threatening situation.

Marichi: son of Brahma and grandfather of Surya the sun god.

Matsyendra: Lord of the Fishes; a fish heard all the teachings when Shiva was imparting knowledge of Yoga to Parvati. Shiva gave him divine form to then spread the knowledge of yoga.

Surya: Sun god

Virabhadra: the great warrior who sprang to Shiva’s aid to seek revenge on his father-in-law.

Nataraja: one of the names of Shiva, the lord of the dance.

Hanuman: chief of the monkey army; one of Rama’s greatest devotees who came to his aid. Hanuman made huge leaps across the sea- first to find Sita and then to save Rama’s brother.

Please contact us to learn ‘Sanskrit for Yoga’. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

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CREATING RIGHT CONDITIONS FOR YOGA

Yoga is about discovering your real inner self, about re-inventing or re-designing yourself. To achieve that, right conditions for Yoga have to be there. Yoga means you are moving towards expanding your consciousness, towards connecting yourself with the Super Consciousness or Super Intelligence. You have to create the necessary atmosphere to let this happen. When you were created the first time, it was not your choice – it happened from memory stored in inherited DNA! But now that you are reinventing yourself through Yoga, you can choose to go step-by-step, moving towards how you want yourself to be.

You expand your consciousness through Yoga. I’ve been asked many times how to do that – well, you don’t have to be explained when you are ready! This is something to be experienced. When you connect with the source of creation, you practically connect with a huge source of intelligence, the kind of intelligence that you won’t think is possible, which we mortals perceive as genius. To allow this to happen, there should be no obstacles. Some of the common obstacles can be removed easily. The Yoga teachings and methodology provided here have been perfected over thousands of years not only to optimize the benefits, but also to reduce any dangers and risks associated with awakening Kundalini Shakti prematurely. This approach helps avoid many of the difficulties involved with the premature awakening of Kundalini that one sometimes comes across. Please follow the following advice and feel the difference.

Cold Water Bath

Before beginning your practice, especially in the morning, it is better to take a bath with cold water which is about five degree Celsius lower than room temperature. This will open up the pores of your skin. This is important for practicing yoga because we want the cellular and energetic structure of the body to be charged with a different dimension. Also, it washes away the physical and emotional negativity accumulated over the preceding time. Why one person seems to be far more alive than the other is essentially because of energy. Once you are charged with energy, youthfulness stays for a very long time.

Yoga Attire

Yoga is generally practiced barefoot. Clothing should generally be loose and comfortable. It is advisable to keep the shoulders and spine covered, so practicing without any covering the upper body is not recommended. This has to do with the awakening, flow and distribution of Kundalini via the 3 main energy channels (ida, pingala and sushumna) that lie in and along the spinal cord.

A blanket can be used to cover the body after Yoga, especially after meditation, during the relaxation period. Keep the body covered and warm. Most Kriyas are followed by a period of relaxation that is usually done in corpse pose (shav-asana) and during this time the body temperature tends to drop, so a blanket can be used to keep the body warm and comfortable.

Yoga With Full Awareness

Keep your full focus on what you are doing. Try to be as aware as possible of every posture and movement you are making during your practice. Check throughout your yoga session where your mind is; if it has wandered, gently bring it back and focus again on the poses and the breathing. This is the most essential requirement of yoga, regardless of whether you are a beginner or a master. In addition, if certain feelings or energies awaken within you, bring your attention to them and just observe them taking their course as you progress through your practice.

Breathing

There is no Yoga without Pranayama! Yoga significantly relies on the Science of Pranayama (breathing exercises). Unless specified otherwise, all breathing should be done through the nose.

Jal Neti (washing the nostrils with saline water) is recommended for cleaning the nasal passageways to help maximize the benefits of pranayama.

Safety

Some Yoga Kriyas can be quite challenging and it is recommended to always do warm-ups first before doing these tough sets and asanas. There are several good easy kriyas and sets, which work very well as warm-ups to the tough kriyas. It is especially important to do spinal warm-ups as charging the cerebrospinal fluid within the spinal cord and brain assists in the flow of awakened Kundalini Shakti. Don’t overdo it. Try to walk the middle road. This goes for both – your overall practice and also for each kriya and asana you do. In other words, each exercise you do should not be too easy and not too hard, and your overall practice should be equally balanced, between being ridiculously ambitious or excessively easy. With regard to your practice, try to establish a steady, long-term daily practice, rather than doing 10 hours a day for 2 weeks and then nothing after that.

Use common sense. For the difficult asanas and exercises, ease off a little if you feel you are risking injury. Also, feel free to increase the relaxation time between exercises or reduce the time suggested for doing a particular exercise to suit your pace. Yoga practice is all about you and only you. It is not a competition. So, listen to your body and let your inner voice guide and direct you.

Yoga Teachings

It is immensely important to initially learn Yoga from a knowledgeable and experienced teacher, the Guru, who can ensure that the understanding is accurately disseminated. Safety is a big concern. If possible you should at least try to attend a few live yoga classes so that you can get a feel of the asanas and pranayamas. Guru is very important. Later on, in absence of Guru, the Guru within is always available to guide you.

Good literature and websites can also provide some guidance for practicing yoga.

When to Practice Yoga

In general Yoga should be practiced in the early morning hours. Early morning is called Brahma-Muhurta in Sanskrit. It literally means ‘The Divine Time’. This is the time of the day when the spiritual energy on our planet is at its highest. The air at that time is fresh and contains the greatest amount of prana (cosmic life force). The mind is also fresh and unburdened with the worries of everyday life. This will help in the practice of concentration and meditation. This is the time of day when you are least likely to be distracted by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The stomach is empty, which is necessary before practicing many of the Yoga asanas and pranayamas.

But if you can’t do your practice at that time, it is acceptable to practice at other times of the day as well. Choice and intensity of Yoga postures is better optimized to the designated time.

Where to Practice Yoga

It is important for the place where you practice Yoga to be neat, spacious and clean, but more importantly, it should be well ventilated. You can also use a fan to keep the air fresh, but make sure it is not pointed directly at you. Practicing outdoors is even better, although direct sunlight should be avoided.

Yoga Diet

Try not to eat at least 3 hours before doing your Yoga practice. While practicing yoga asanas, you should not only be on an empty stomach, your bowels should also be empty. Anything that is not the body should be out of the body if you want to move your energies beneficially. Though they act on the physical body, or the annamaya kosha, as well, Yoga practices are not mere physical exercises; they act at the energy bodies as well. To achieve that, nothing should be there other than your body. So, the food you put in or the waste you produced, both these things should be out.

Given that Yoga uses many different bandhas (body locks), pranayamas (breathing exercises), asanas and vigorous movement, you could be quite uncomfortable if your stomach or bowels are still full.

Although Yoga in general recommends a Sattvic diet (foods that promote calmness and clarity), and not Rajasic foods (energetic foods that promote activity) or Tamasic foods (foods that promote heaviness and dull the mind), due to the nature of Yoga, including some Rajasic foods in your diet is permissible. Still it is recommended that the bulk of your diet be Sattvic. Sattvic foods are generally fresh and sweet such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, honey etc. Rajasic foods are generally spicy and stimulating, such as onions, garlic, eggs, fish, tea etc. Tamasic foods are fatty foods, stale food, meat, etc.

Yoga Kriyas are designed to force the organs, tissues, nerves and vessels to expel buried toxins out into the elimination systems of the body. So some time after any Kriyas or tough yoga set, one should drink plenty of water to help cleanse the body of the toxins and waste that have been released.

Keep Your Eyes Closed

Just closing eyes reduces 75% of alpha wave activity in brain. So, for us humans, shutting down the visual apparatus is quite important to quieten the mind. You see this world with your eyes, and you hold a lot of energy in your eyes. When eyes are closed, the outer world disappears. The eyes naturally close for any internal experience because the visual apparatus connects us with the outward. If you just close them, you can still hear, smell and feel, but much of the world is shut out. So, focus on internal experience happens best when your eyes are closed. When you’re doing Yoga, you want to internalize everything. So, keep your eyes closed during yoga.

Speaking

Not talking during the asana should not be just a norm in Yoga classes, it should be a rule! Asanas are dynamic meditation – because you are not yet capable of staying still, you’re doing something else to become meditative, that which is absolutely comfortable and stable is your asana. When your body is at ease, your mind is at ease and your energies flow freely, in complete vibrancy and balance. If you sit still, you are naturally meditative. To come to a state of natural meditation, the preparatory step is asana.

If you speak, many disturbances happen physiologically and energetically. You must never speak in postures because your focus, breath and what happens to your energy system are most important; otherwise you will disturb the system. If you have to speak, come out of asana and then do it.

Using Mirrors/Listening to Music

Ideally, there should never be a mirror or music when you practice Hatha Yoga. This culture of using mirrors has come from body-building and gymnasia because, there, people want to admire their physical bodies. In yoga, that is not recommended at all. If you look at yogis, their physical structure is not like that of an athlete – they are quite ordinary; some are even plump! For Yogis, the only thing important to them is their consciousness which must grow. If you want to get the involvement of that which is the source of creation within you, your body, mind, and energy must be absolutely involved and aligned. And your mental focus is most important while practicing asanas.

Classical yoga demands aligning your body, mind and energy, and the innermost core. You have to give your one hundred percent for the source of creation, which we usually refer to as the divine, to yield. If you hold back or deviate a little, it will not be there for you.

Frequency of Practice

The Yoga Sutra says – sthira sukham asanam – an asana should be comfortable and stable. The goal of asana practice is to achieve a state where your asana is comfortable and stable; even if you remain in a posture for hours, it should stay the same, without eliciting any disturbances internally. That is when your perception starts expanding.

The intention of Hatha Yoga practice is to knead the body in such a way that we can remold it. So, whatever time you want to devote, should be done with one hundred percent involvement. In true spirit of Yoga, doing yoga every day or twice a week – that doesn’t really matter!

Human body is clay. Karma, or the established memory, makes it rigid. . It is because of this memory that the physical, physiological and psychological aspects becomes rigid. Through Yoga, we try to undo that. Then, you can shape it whichever way you want because the energies become fluid.

Please contact us to book your spot in our Yoga classes. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc. (Alternative Medicine), Ph.D. (Alternative Medicine),MD (Alternative Medicine), M.B.,B.S., Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist and Yoga Teacher in London ON. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfil your aspirations!

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

Breathing and Mindfulness in Fibromyalgia

Did you know, you can retrain your ‪breath, make your brain healthier and defeat ‪fibromyalgia ‪naturally?

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia affects muscles and soft tissues. Fibromyalgia is a disorder of unknown cause, characterized by widespread pain, abnormal pain processing, sleep disturbances, fatigue and often psychological distress. People with fibromyalgia may also have other symptoms, such as morning stiffness, tingling or numbness in hands and feet, headaches, including migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, sleep disturbances, cognitive problems with thinking and memory or “fibro fog”, problems with thinking and memory, painful menstrual periods and other pain syndromes

It is not a true a form of arthritis, though fibromyalgia is considered an arthritis-related and rheumatic condition. However, fibromyalgia can cause significant pain and fatigue, and it can interfere with a person’s ability to carry on daily activities. Fibromyalgia is prevalent in about 2 – 4% of population. Between 80 and 90 percent of fibromyalgia patients are females, but men and children may also be affected. Most people are diagnosed during middle age and prevalence increases with age. Fibromyalgia has been associated with lower levels of health-related quality-of-life and work-productivity loss.

People with certain rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (commonly called lupus), or ankylosing spondylitis (spinal arthritis) may be more likely to have fibromyalgia, too. Average yearly direct medical costs/person range from $3400 to $3600. Total annual costs per person is $5,945.

Problem is with the perception of pain stimuli. People with fibromyalgia react strongly (abnormal pain perception processing) to things that other people would not find painful. Researchers believe repeated nerve stimulation causes the brains of people with fibromyalgia to change. This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain (neurotransmitters). Two neurotransmitter chemicals– glutamate and substance P, which increase the transmission of pain signals, are high in people with fibromyalgia. Serotonin, nor-epinephrine, and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which decrease pain transmission, are low in people with this condition. Brain imaging studies show that when patients with fibromyalgia are given a mild pressure or heat stimulus, the pain-processing areas of their brains light up. In people without fibromyalgia, they don’t. In addition, the brain’s pain receptors tend to develop a memory of the pain and become more sensitive, meaning they can overreact to pain signals.

New findings suggest that people with fibromyalgia have abnormalities in the peripheral nervous system, but even proponents of peripheral involvement now agree that the central nervous system plays an important role.

One may have two or more coexisting chronic conditions. Such conditions can include chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, vulvodynia etc. Whether or not they share a common etiology, is not known.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be tough. Standard laboratory tests fail to reveal a physiologic reason for pain. American College of Rheumatology guidelines suggest certain criteria: a history of widespread pain lasting more than 3 months, and other general physical symptoms including fatigue, waking unrefreshed, and cognitive (memory or thought) problems. Moreover, doctors often check for certain tender points on the body.

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia, also known as fibromyalgia syndrome or FMS, may include:

Pain

Anxiety

Concentration and memory problems

Depression

Fatigue

Headaches

Irritable bowel syndrome

Morning stiffness

Painful menstrual cramps

Sleep problems

Numbness, and tingling in hands, arms, feet, and legs

Tender points

Urinary symptoms, such as pain or frequency etc.

Some more common symptoms of fibromyalgia are:

Muscle Aches:Many people complain of a deep, aching muscle pain that cannot be massaged or stretched out. It can feel like you’ve pulled a muscle, but it could also be a burning or aching sensation. Muscle aches can act up on some days more than others.

Headaches: About half of all fibromyalgia sufferers also suffer from chronic headaches or migraines. A chemical imbalance in the brain may be to blame. Headaches can come on suddenly, and may be triggered by other muscle pain.

Tender Points:Experts have located 18 specific tender points on the body that are triggered by fibromyalgia. These are found at the back of the head, between the shoulders, front of the neck, top of the chest, elbows, tops of the hips, and inside of the knees. There are 18 points (9 pairs) which can be painful when pressed, and may spread pain to other body parts.

Fatigue:Chronic, daily, debilitating fatigue is present. The muscle pain and joint stiffness can make it difficult to sleep, and conditions like restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea have been known to occur alongside fibromyalgia. A sleepless night leads to a lethargic day, and a lack of sleep can even make you more sensitive to pain.

Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, and frequent waking during the night are common side effects. Not surprisingly, this fibromyalgia insomnia feeds the fatigue, and can further impair concentration and memory.

‘Brain Fog’ or ‘Fibro fog’: Fibromyalgia patients may also find that certain physical symptoms can lead to other pains or even mental distress. For example, physical pain can have a big effect on ability to think clearly and solve problems – a cognitive problem commonly known as “fibro fog.”

It is important to find a doctor who is familiar with fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia treatment often requires a team approach, with your doctor, a physical therapist, possibly other health professionals, and most importantly, yourself, all playing an active role. Yoga Therapy or Therapeutic Yoga has a big role to play.

Medications

Medications can help reduce the pain of fibromyalgia and improve sleep. Common choices include:

Pain relievers:Over-the-counter NSAID pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve, others) may help; prescription pain relievers such as tramadol (Ultram, Conzip) may be required. Narcotics are not advised, because they can lead to dependence and may even worsen the pain over time.

Antidepressants:Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and milnacipran (Savella) may help ease the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Amitriptyline or fluoxetine (Prozac) may also be prescribed to help promote sleep.

Anti-seizure drugs: Anti-epileptics are often useful in reducing certain types of pain. Gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise) is sometimes helpful in reducing fibromyalgia symptoms, while pregabalin (Lyrica) was the first drug approved by FDA to treat fibromyalgia.

Therapy

Talking with a counselor can help strengthen your belief in your abilities and teach you strategies for dealing with stressful situations.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Self-care is critical in the management of fibromyalgia.

Reduce stress.Avoid or limit overexertion and emotional stress. Allow yourself time each day to relax. People who quit work or drop all activity tend to do worse than do those who remain active. Try stress management techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises or meditation.

Get enough sleep. Getting sufficient sleep is essential. Practice good sleep habits, such as going to bed and getting up at the same time each day and limiting daytime napping.

Exercise regularly. At first, exercise may increase your pain. But doing it gradually and regularly often decreases symptoms. Stretching, good posture and relaxation exercises are helpful. Exercise boosts brain levels of nor-epinephrine and helps reduce stress.

Pace yourself.Practice moderation – means not overdoing it on your good days, and not self-limiting or doing too little on bad days.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Fear of pain can make things worse. This form of ‘talk therapy’ helps patients learn new ways to think about how they feel, and that affects brain function and can reduce pain. CBT is effective in fibromyalgia. CBT can help change how the brain interprets pain signals.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Eat healthy foods.

Limit your caffeine intake.

Do something that you find enjoyable and fulfilling every day.

Alternative Medicine

Meditation and yoga, have been practiced for thousands of years, but their use has become more popular in recent years. Many practices remain unproved because they haven’t been adequately studied.

Yoga.Yoga combines meditation, slow movements, deep breathing and relaxation. This has been found to be helpful in controlling fibromyalgia symptoms.

Tai Chi.Also called Chinese Yoga, this has benefits similar to Yoga.

Marma Therapy.Marma points or the Indian pressure points, help restore balance in energy. This acts through changes in blood flow and levels of neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord. Good Marma Therapy plan can go a long way. Effect of Marma massages have not been studied in the west, but it is believed that they are quite effective.

Acupuncture.Derived from Marma Therapy, acupuncture is a Chinese medical system based on restoring normal balance of life forces by inserting very fine needles through the skin to various depths. Some studies indicate that acupuncture helps relieve fibromyalgia symptoms, while others show no benefit.

Massage therapy.Yoga and Ayurvedic massages, based on Marma points, have wonderful clinical effect. Even western massages – deep tissue massage, or Swedish massage, can reduce your heart rate, relax your muscles, improve range of motion in your joints and increase production of your body’s natural painkillers. It often helps relieve stress and anxiety.

Prognosis

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, but it is not progressive. It is never fatal, and it will not cause damage to the joints, muscles, or internal organs. In many people, the condition does improve over time.

Newer Research on Fibromyalgia

Understanding pain

Some promising research now being conducted is on understanding pain. Research suggests that fibromyalgia is caused by a problem in how the body processes pain, or more precisely, a hypersensitivity to stimuli that normally are not painful. These studies include:

Role of neurotansmitters, called cytokines, that regulate immune cell function.

The use of imaging methods to evaluate the status of central nervous system.

Role of immune cells in triggering a cascade of events leading to the activation of nerve cells, chronic pain, and the dysregulation of the effects of analgesic drugs against pain.

An intensive evaluation of twins to assess role of genetics or environment.

A study examining the use of cognitive behavioral therapy in pain patients.

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) initiative. The PROMIS initiative is researching and developing new ways to measure patient-reported outcomes (PROs), such as pain, fatigue, physical functioning, emotional distress, and social role participation that have a major impact on quality of life across a variety of chronic diseases.

Yoga and Ayurveda in Fibromyalgia

From Ayurvedic point of view, it is described as ‘Mansa Dhatugat and Mansavrut Vata‘ disease. Broadly speaking, fibromyalgia is perceived as a Vata imbalance. Vata is the main imbalance and aggravated Vata destabilizes the nervous system and can create hypersensitivity leading to pain and tenderness. Accumulation of ‘ama’ (toxins) and shrotorodha are also contributing factors. This is accompanied by weak digestion, constipation, and effects of chronic stress should also be tackled.

Panchakarma Therapy

Pre-purification Measures namely ‘snehan‘ and ‘swedan‘ are very useful to balance ‘Vata‘ and to loosen the toxins. Snehan is the Herbalized Oil Massage. This oil is applied to the entire body with a particular type of massage. Swedan is sweating and is given immediately following the snehan. A herbal decoction may be added to the steam to further enhance effect. This also provides a deeply soothing and balancing effect to the entire nervous system. The motion of massage creates heat and friction which enhances circulation and helps cleanse.

Decoction of the roots of ten herbs (Dashamularisht) should be given in the dose of 30 ml., twice daily.

Daily use of ‘Triphala choorna’ is recommended for colon cleanse.

Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water or milk, taken twice a day, helps to reduce pain and inflammation in fibromyalgia.

Garlic enhances immune system function and helps detoxify.

Guggul is a very helpful herb for relief of pain.

Licorice root supports the glandular system. It should be used only up to seven days in a row. Avoid it if you have high blood pressure.

Ginger tea relieves minor aches and pains. Steep 1 teaspoon of the grated root in 8 ounces of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and add honey to taste, if you like. Alternatively, take 1 to 2 grams of powdered ginger (saunth) a day with food.

Generic preparations available in market such as Dashamularisht, Triphala, Guggul, Maharasnadi Kwath, Vata Vidhwans Rasa etc. can be taken under the guidance of an expert Ayurvedic physician.

Yoga has always had a lot to offer. I’ve always called it a science beyond nano-science! Effective treatment for fibromyalgia is possible throughYoga Therapyand we offer world-class Yoga Therapy services at SAVY under Dr Jitender K Sahdev. The real route to fibromyalgia recovery lies in non-drug approaches that retrain the breath and thence brain. The primary source of fibromyalgia pain is not in the back, neck, head, stomach or legs, where the pain is typically felt, rather it’s in the brain! And that points to the real solution. Lifestyle, and mind-body approaches that help with fibromyalgia have something in common – they all help restore a balance of neurotransmitters in the brain and central nervous system. They literally change the brain! Brain imaging studies also show that these approaches can affect brain function. They are not just as effective as medication, but almost always safer and much less expensive.

Fibromyalgia is often worsened by stress, anxiety and mental fatigue. There are hormonal changes and other biochemical responses to stress that can aggravate the condition. Sleep disturbances increase fatigue. Efforts should be made to increase the Sattvic quality of mind.

A significant study published in the journal Pain suggests that yoga can help improve fibromyalgia symptoms. Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon randomly assigned 53 female patients with fibromyalgia either to a yoga program or standard medication treatment (control group) for eight weeks. The Yoga of Awareness program included gentle yoga poses, meditation, yoga breathing (pranayama), yoga coping instructions and yoga group discussions.

The researchers found that the yoga group had significant improvement in fibromyalgia symptoms including pain, mood, fatigue, poor sleep, memory problems and coping strategies. Furthermore, the yoga group had a 24 percent decrease in pain, 30 percent decrease in fatigue and 42 percent decrease in depression.

Asanas

Deep stretching is known to have a positive effect on fibromyalgia. Some helpful poses are:

Tadasana,

Uttanasana,

Balasana,

Viparitakarni,

Bhujangasana,

Virbhadrasana,

Badha Konasana

Shavasana or Yoga Nidra

More of Vata reducing routines will be helpful. Regular practice of different postures should be done. Progressive deep relaxation, i.e., shavasana (corpse pose) brings about relaxation. At SAVY, we offer specialized Yoga routines very well-suited for fibromyalgia.

are some of the exercises which can help in fibromyalgia. All this must be undertaken strictly under proper guidance. Some clinical studies done in India have shown very positive results. Dr Sahdev’s Breathe and Heal Therapy, is one of the most effective and the safest breathing and mindfulness Yoga program specifically designed by a doctor for therapy.

Mudras

Hasta mudras attack the very root of problem; they address the issue of imbalance of five elements. Done for a minimum 45 minutes a day, they can be very effective.

These are some of the representative mudras:

Gyan Mudra

Vata-nashak Mudra

Anjali Mudra

Apana Mudra

Apana-Vayu Mudra

Prana Mudra

You should be able to notice the difference within a week. Mudras of the body, base, tongue, eyes etc form an integral part of our Yoga Therapy program. You can also join a specialized course on Hasta Mudras.

Shatkarma

The six detoxifying procedures of Yoga:

Neti,

Dhauti,

Nauli,

Basti,

Kapaal Bhaati, and

Traatak

if done with proper technique, can be very helpful. Learn these under expert guidance at SAVY.

Lifestyle and Daily Routine

One of the most important factors is to have a lifestyle that does not disturb the natural body rhythm. When we eat, sleep and exercise in fluctuating and disturbing patterns, the body loses its natural cycle. Regularity in daily life can be extremely effective in reducing Vata imbalance. Expert Yoga Nutrition guidance is available at SAVY and should be availed.

Be The Leader, The Future, The Change

If you have genuine interest in helping and empowering people with health issues, this program is especially for you!

Click on the image below to know details:

Note : DSBH Therapy®, aka MBH Therapy® has not been evaluated by Health Canada, US Food & Drug Administration or the American Medical Association. This technology does not claim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medical advice must only be obtained from a physician or qualified health practitioner. Results may vary between individuals. There are no guarantees, expressed, or implied.

You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new therapy or exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises or undertaking any therapy program.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

Approximately two years ago I found a new appreciation for yoga while searching for anything that would help my anxiety and to help me with the stresses of everyday life.

Utthitta Parsvokonasana

I was searching for something to calm my mind and heal myself with. I found it in yoga.

Parivratta Trikonasana

I usually practice moderately active flow style yoga, but have experimented with hatha, hot yoga, bikram, ashtanga, kundalini and other styles.

Paschimottanasana

After almost two years of practicing (almost) every day, I decided it was time to take my practice to a new level, and begin to share yoga with those around me so that I can help others find what I found in yoga.

Parivratta Janushirasana

Paripurna Navasana

I flew across the country, in February, to a bitterly cold and snowy London, to attend SAVY international’s two-week yoga teacher training program to become a registered yoga teacher.

Ushtrasana

The training was fascinating, all-encompassing and in depth.

Parighasana

Salamba Sarvangsamasana

The instruction was very encouraging, and really helped me to understand physical postures and find confidence in poses that I never thought I would progress in.

Karnapeedasana

Jathara Parivritti

Bhujangasana

During my training I grew to appreciate the depth of yoga, its history and philosophy.

Ek Pada Adhomukha Shvanasana

Chaturanga Dandasana

Bakasana

Parshva Bakasana

Ek Pada Chakrasana

At the end of two weeks, exhausted, inspired and frozen solid, I dragged myself onto the airplane that would take me home, inwardly beaming at my accomplishment.

Vashishtasana

Utkatasana

Chakrasana

Adhomukha Vrikshasana

Ashtavakrasana

I left SAVY feeling inspired, confident and super-excited to share yoga with those around me.

A note from the President’s desk

Dr Jitender K Sahdev

March, the month which marks the beginning of spring, is here! The March equinox on the 20th or 21st marks the astronomical beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. The name of March comes from Latin Martius, the first month of the earliest Roman calendar. It was named for Mars, the Roman god of war who was also regarded as a guardian of agriculture and an ancestor of the Roman people through his sons Romulus and Remus. His month Martius was the beginning of the season for both farming and warfare.

In this now very popular Featured SAVY Yogi of the Month series, we present SAVY Yogis who have been learning the right kind of true, traditional yoga with correct techniques, have done wonderfully well for themselves and are a guiding light and a source of great inspiration for others.

In this month marking the onset of spring, it’s my pleasure to introduce Aricia Haywood, our new savvy SAVY Yogi for the month of March. She completed her RYT 200 Yoga Teacher Training with me in February, 2015 and is a Yoga Alliance, USA registered Yoga Teacher now. She’ll be completing her DSBH Breathing Educator (DBE-I) training soon. A dedicated and devoted Yogi to the hilt with the freshness of a blossoming spring flower, a bold explorer who loves to meet challenges head on, she is blessed with a compassionate heart, a strong, sinewy, lithe, sculpted and flexible yoga body and a steely grit. She braved the merciless freezing cold and dipping temperatures to come and join us here at SAVY for Registered Yoga TeacherTraining and ruffled the brutal February cold weather in London with the whiff of freshness and warmth of spring air all the way down from Victoria, BC! Always up to the demands of the rigorous, intensive training and the ruthless 16-hour routine for two weeks straight she chose to join us for, she seemed to thoroughly enjoy every moment of her encounter with the intense challenges and met each one of them head on! Her attitude, devotion and professionalism made the extreme weather conditions look like nothing more than a mere minor inconvenience. She had done traditional yoga before and enjoyed her re-encounter and rediscovery of authentic traditional yoga at SAVY Studio. She showed a very keen interest in learning new yoga poses. She is an avid learner of her new-found passion of Yogic breathing exercises and newer meditation techniques, and what they can do for her. Day in and day out, she worked her way through the routines with great dedication. She has a keen sense of inquiry, is quick to learn, came out with flying colors in the training, and is bound to do great for herself. She is certainly going to be a source of enormous inspiration for her future students.

with

More advanced individualized routines even effective for regeneration of damaged tissues available

AT SAVY – WE DELIVER RESULTS!

Heart disease and stroke remain the leading cause of preventable death for men and women in Canada, taking a life every 7 minutes. Chronic and uncontrolled stress increases one’s risk of heart disease and stroke.

Yoga acts at physical level through its effect on the limbic–hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (LHPA axis);millieu interiur, and hence, bodily functions can be controlled through Asanas, Pranayama, Dhyana, Kriyas, Mudras, and other more refined elements of Yoga. Learn all this in SAVY Yoga classes.

A firm commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency). Missed classes will not be compensated.

In addition to the classes at studio, you should also follow the routine at home.

At the end of the one month program, continue the same practice at home or sign-up for further training. Continue this practice for better results.

Monitoring : To monitor improvement, you may get the following parameters checked before and after one month:

Blood Pressure in mm Hg

Pulse rate/ minute

Respiratory Rate

Weight

Lipid Profile :

S Cholesterol,

S Triglycerides,

HDL Cholesterol,

LDL Cholesterol,

INR

Please contact us to book your spot. Please book your spot at the Studio (WE PREFER CASH AT THE STUDIO); your spot will be confirmed only after receiving full payment. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming experience.

Please contact us to learn more about Yoga and Ayurveda. We would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited in courses and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So, respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming Yoga experience.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

with

AT SAVY – WE DELIVER RESULTS!

Heart disease and stroke remain the leading cause of preventable death for men and women in Canada, taking a life every 7 minutes. Chronic and uncontrolled stress increases one’s risk of heart disease and stroke.

Yoga acts at physical level through its effect on the limbic–hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (LHPA axis);millieu interiur, and hence, bodily functions can be controlled through Asanas, Pranayama, Dhyana, Kriyas, Mudras, and other more refined elements of Yoga. Learn all this in SAVY Yoga classes.

A firm commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency). Missed classes will not be compensated.

In addition to the classes here, you should also follow the routine at home.

At the end of the one month program, continue the same practice at home or sign-up for another month. Continue this practice for better results.

Monitoring : To monitor results, you may get the following parameters checked before and after one month:

Blood Pressure in mm Hg

Pulse rate/ minute

Respiratory Rate

Weight

Lipid Profile :

S Cholesterol,

S Triglycerides,

HDL Cholesterol,

LDL Cholesterol,

INR

Please contact us if you are interested, or get your ticket below. To book your spot, please deposit the minimum suggested donation online or at the Studio (WE PREFER CASH AT THE STUDIO); your spot may be confirmed only after receiving full payment.

I would love to hear any suggestions or comments that you might have. Space is limited and participation will be on a first-come-first-served basis. So respond early to participate in this exciting, life-transforming experience.

Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 35,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

You can register by clicking on the button below :

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation. This is an exercise program and the results may vary.

Vipashyana, or Vipassana, or Breath Awareness Meditation, comes from the source of Yoga, the Vedas – the books of knowledge.

Rig Veda, handed over for thousands of years from generation to generation through shruti, and written in (?)1700 BC, mentions the technique of Vipashyana and is full of praise for Vipashyana in Mandala 10, Sukta 187, Rik 4 :

यो विश्वा॒भि वि॒पश्य॑ति॒ भुव॑ना॒ सं च॒ पश्य॑ति ।

स नः॑ पर्ष॒दति॒ द्विषः॑ ॥

yaḥ ǀ viśvā ǀ abhi ǀ vi-paśyati ǀ bhuvanā ǀ sam ǀ ca ǀ paśyati ǀ

saḥ ǀ naḥ ǀ parṣat ǀ ati ǀ dviṣaḥ ǁ

Yo vishvabhih vipashyati bhuvanah sam cha pashyati

sa nah parshadati dvishah.

One who practices Vipashyana in a perfect way, comes out of all aversion and anger – the mind becomes pure.

Vipashyana is a Sanskrit word. ‘Vi’ in Sanskrit is equivalent to the Latin ‘dis’.” ‘Pashya’ in Sanskrit means ‘to see’. The ‘vi’ in vipashyana may then mean to look into, look through or to see in a special way.’ The ‘vi’ can also function as an intensive, and thus vipashyana may mean ‘seeing deeply’.

In Budhism, a synonym for ‘Vipassana’ is paccakkha (Pāli); this is a deformed sound of ‘pratyakṣha’ in Sanskrit, which means ‘right in front of your eyes’, or, ‘what is very obvious’, refers to direct experiential perception. Thus, the type of seeing denoted by vipashyana is that of direct perception, as opposed to the knowledge derived from reasoning or argument. Its nature is a clarity of mind.

Looking into something with clarity and precision, seeing each component as distinct and separate, and piercing all the way through so as to perceive the most fundamental reality of that thing”

Pranapanasmriti, or prAnapanasmriti (Sanskrit) , or Anapanasati(Pali) is mindfulness of breath. This is a core meditation practice which is simpler than, and a stepping stone to, Vipashyana. Pranapanasmriti or Anapanasmriti comes from Sanskrit word roots Prana (upward breath) + Apana (downward breath) + Smriti (memory, or to remember, or to be mindful of). So, this reminds one to focus on, and remember, or be mindful of, the breath! This is a part of most mindfulness programs based on breath awareness. But one has to practice these to derive the benefits; mere knowledge of the techniques is not enough!

The Practice of Vipashyana or Vipassana or Breath Awareness Meditation

We humans are subject to innumerable limitations. We are imprisoned in the body and the stratosphere of the earth itself. We are slaves to the inevitability of sickness, age, and death – we have to face it at one or the other time. There is no-one who really controls his life fully, attains all his goals, and knows no setbacks of any kind! Meditation shows the way to self-awakening, the way to freedom from suffering and limitation.

We have lost awareness of our true Self through awareness of external objects, and become habituated, even addicted, to objective consciousness. Meditation shows us the way to remembrance and restoration. Meditation is the process of re-centering our awareness in the principle of pure consciousness which is our essential being. By focusing on breath – the meeting place of body, mind, and spirit, we can reverse our consciousness.

The breath is connected with body, emotions and mind – breath is calm when the body, emotions and mind are calm, and agitated or labored when these are agitated or labored. That is why we exhale heavily when we feel exhausted and inhale enthusiastically when feeling energized or exhilarated.

Breath exists on all planes of manifestation. Breath is external manifestation of Prana, the vital force. Breath is gross Prana. Breath is Sthula (gross), Prana is Sukshma (subtle). By exercising control over this breathing you can control the subtle Prana inside. Control of Prana means control of mind. Mind cannot operate without the help of Prana. The vibrations of Prana produce thoughts in the mind. Mind works because of Prana – it is Prana that sets the mind in motion. It is the Sukshma Prana that is intimately connected with the mind. Prana is the connecting link between annamaya kosha on one hand and manomaya kosha, vigyanamaya kosha and anandamaya kosha on the other hand, or, matter and energy on the one hand and consciousness and super consciousness on the other.

By sitting with closed eyes and letting the mind become easily absorbed in observing and experiencing the movements of the breath, we expand our consciousness to meet the eternal Super Consciousness. We start with awareness of the ordinary physical breath, but that awareness, cultivated correctly, leads us into higher awareness which enables us to perceive the subtle movement behind the breath. Perception moves from subtle to subtler, to the subtlest.

From Consciousness to Super Consciousness

According to Yoga philosophy, all that is manifest came into being consequent to imbalance in sattwa, rajas and tamas, and Prana is the essence of all that is manifest. Prana is present all over the universe both in macrocosm and microcosm. Prana is the sum total of all energy that is manifest in the universe, the sum total of all the forces in nature, the sum total of all latent forces and powers which are hidden in men and which lie everywhere around us. Proper flow of Prana in our bodies assures their healthy state.

Prana is a subtle energy arising from rajo guna. It works as an interface between gross and subtle body, enabling all the psychophysical functions. This sometimes leads to confusion of prana with jiva. Though closely connected, prana is witnessed by the jiva which is floating in prana in the heart cavity. Prana’s movement leads to jiva’s identification with the gross body. Mundaka Upanishad says (3.1.9):

“The atomic soul can be perceived by perfect intelligence as floating in the five kinds of life airs (prana, apana, vyana, samana and udana). When the consciousness (that pervades from the soul through the entire body) is purified from the contamination of the five kinds of material airs, its spiritual influence is exhibited.”

The breath is the evolutionary force which causes us to enter into relative existence and manifest therein until we evolve to the point where we are ready to return to our original status, purified. To turn back from the multiplicity of relativity and return to our original unity we must center our awareness in that primal impulse to duality which is manifesting most objectively as the process of our physical inhaling and exhaling. These seemingly two movements are in reality one, inseparable from one another, and together are capable of leading us back to the Super Consciousness. Through our full attention focused on the entire process of inhalation and exhalation, we become immersed in the subtler levels of that alternating cycle, moving into deeper and deeper levels until we reach the originating point.

Breath Awareness Meditation is simple and easy because it goes directly to the root – loss of awareness. The root cause of suffering lies in the memories of the past, or the plans of the future. Awareness of breath brings us back to the moment. Also, Breath Awareness Meditation is so natural and spontaneous that it teaches us about itself–the actual practice, its meaning, purpose and effect. The more we practice, the more our spiritual intuition comes to the fore and becomes our instructor. Breath is your teacher!

Stages of Development

Bring your awareness to the upper lip or below the nostrils.

Observe the breathing in and breathing out in the fixed area of the upper lip or below the nostrils.

Maintain your attention in this area and gently bring your awareness back to this area if you are distracted.

Be a neutral observer. Notice the temperature of the breaths, sensations below the nostrils or upper lip, and the rhythm while simply observing them.

If you are not able to maintain your awareness in the fixed area, then:

In the first stage, you can use counting to stay focused on the breath. After the exhale you count one, then you breathe in and out and count two, and so on up to ten, and then you start again at one.

In the second stage, you subtly shift where you breathe, counting before the inhale, anticipating the breath that is coming, but still counting from one to ten, and then starting again at one.

In the third stage you drop the counting and just watch the breath as it comes in and goes out.

In the final stage the focus of concentration narrows and sharpens, so you pay attention to the subtle sensation on the tip of the nose where the breath first enters and last leaves the body.

The practice of Breath Meditation

Sit comfortably, relaxed, with back and neck straight.

If you wear glasses, take them off.

Place your left hand with palm facing up on your lap and place your right hand (palm up) on top of your left palm. Or, place your hands on your knees or thighs, palms up or down, or resting, one on the other, in your lap.

No background music – silence is the utmost important.

Turn your eyes slightly downward and close them gently. Just closing your eyes reduces your brain-wave activity by about 75%, thus helping to calm the mind.

Your mouth should be closed so all breathing is done through the nose. This, too, aids in quieting the mind. Mouth closed, jaw relaxed, so the upper and lower teeth are not clenched or touching one another, but parted a little.

Inhale and exhale slowly and deeply three or four times, feeling the inhaling and exhaling breath moving in and out through your nostrils.

Now breathe naturally and easy, keeping your awareness at the fixed spot, or on counting, as the case may be, feeling the breath as it flows in and out of your nostrils. Do not follow the breath in and out of your body, but just be aware of the breath movement sensation at the fixed spot.

Keeping your awareness at the one spot, breathe naturally and calmly, observing the sensation of the breath moving there throughout all your inhalations and exhalations. This enables you to enter effortlessly into witnessing your breath.

Do this for the rest of the meditation, letting your awareness rest gently on the breath at the chosen spot, and feeling the sensations of the breath moving there. After a while it may feel as though the breath is flowing in and out the spot more than the actual nostrils, or you may not feel the spot at all – just the breath moving at the location of the point. That is perfectly alright, but the focus of your attention should be only at that point–not somewhere else either outside or inside the body.

Let the breath be. If the breath is naturally long, let it be so. If it is short, let it be so. If the inhalations and exhalations are of unequal length, that is just fine. Let the breath be natural and unforced, and just observe and experience it. In time, your breath will become more subtle and refined, and slow down. Sometimes your breath can become so light that it almost seems as though you are not breathing at all. At such times you may perceive that your inhaling and exhaling are more like a magnetic pull or flow in and out instead of actual breath movements. This occurs as the subtle life force (prana) that produces the breath switches back and forth in polarity from positive to negative. It is also normal for your breath awareness to move back and forth from more objective to more subtle and back to more objective.

Sometimes the subtle breath is silent, but at other times you will inwardly “hear” the breath making sounds as it moves in and out. These will not be actual physical sounds, but very subtle mental sounds. They may be like the sounds made by forceful or heavy inhalation and exhalation; whatever they may be, just be calmly aware of them while staying centered on the breath.

The breath is a kind of barometer of the subtle energies of body and mind. Sometimes it is very smooth, light and easy, and at other times it feels heavy, even constricted, or clogged, sticky, ragged, uneven, and generally uncomfortable and somehow feels ‘not right’. When this occurs, do not try to interfere with it or ‘make it better’. Rather, just relax and be calmly aware and let it be as it is. If you do this, the problem in the subtle energy levels which the breath is reflecting will correct itself and the breath will become easy and pleasant.

In Breath Meditation we only focus our awareness on the breath at fixed spot, and not on any other point of the body. However, as you meditate you may become aware of one or more areas of your body at different times. Stay centered on your breath.

Thoughts, impressions, memories, inner sensations, and the like may arise during meditation. Be calmly aware of all these things in a detached and objective manner. Let them come and go as they will, but keep your attention centered on the tip of the nose and your breath moving there. Be indifferent to any inner or outer phenomena. Breath Meditation produces peace, awareness and quiet joy in your mind as well as soothing radiations of energy in the physical and subtle bodies. Be calmly aware of all these things in a detached and objective manner–they are part of the transforming effect of meditation, and are perfectly alright, but keep your attention centered on your breath. Even though something feels very right or good when it occurs, it should not be forced or hung on to. It is not the experience we are after, but the effect.

If you find yourself getting restless, distracted, fuzzy, anxious or tense, just inhale and exhale slowly and deeply a few times, feeling the inhaling and exhaling breath moving in and out through your nostrils, at the same time feeling that you are releasing and breathing out all tensions. Then resume meditation as before. Relaxation is the key to successful meditation practice.

Keep in mind that Breath Meditation basically consists of being aware in a relaxed and easy manner of your breath as it moves in and out at the fixed spot.

At the end of your meditation, keep on being calmly aware of your breath moving in and out of your nose as you go about your various routine activities. In this way you can continue in the calm and clear state of meditation.

In between, in your meditation, it is good to check three things:

Am I aware of the chosen spot?

Am I continuously experiencing the movement or energy-flow of the breath at or in the chosen spot?

Am I aware of the breath movement throughout the entire duration of each inhalation and exhalation?

These are the essential points of Breath Meditation.

Recommended Frequency and Duration:

Week 1: 10 minute meditation – 2 times a day (morning and evening)

Week 2:20 minute meditation -2 times a day (morning and evening)

Week 3: 30 minute meditation – 2 times a day (morning and evening)

Certification Test:

For Certificate (for CEU’s or DBE), you can apply for online Certification Test. Please contact office for the Certification Test Request Form. Completed form is to be submitted along with,

To learn more about mindfulness and breathing based free e-course and the science behind it, and to attend live workshop, please contact us.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

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Primordial Sound Meditation

OM or AUM is the most important and significant Mantra. It is considered as the root mantra of all mantras. In fact, all mantras start with OM. OM is the most often chanted sound among all the sacred sounds on earth. The one mantra you start your yoga class with and end with, is the mantra OM or AUM. It is the most important mantra of Yoga. This mantra has been handed down to us by sages; Maharishi Vishwamitra discovered this sound during meditation.

It is believed traditionally that every ‘thing’ that we see or feel, comes from Primordial Vibration, which is symbolised by AUM. This sound is considered as the sound of the existence. It is believed that the whole universe, in its most fundamental form, is made up of vibrating, pulsating energy. Vibration produces sound and AUM is considered the humming sound of this cosmic energy. AUM is said to be the primordial creative sound from which the entire universe has manifested. It is also known as the ‘Anahat Nada‘, the “Unstruck Sound“, meaning, the sound that is not made by striking of two things together. If you observe the nature of sound you’ll find that all ordinary audible sounds are produced by the striking of two objects. All sounds within our range of listening are produces by things visible or invisible, striking each other or vibrating together, resulting in pulsating waves of air molecules which we interpret as sound.

In contrast to this, AUM is the sound which is not the result of the striking of two objects. It rather emanates on its own. It is the primal sound of the universe that contains all sounds in itself. All material objects, all living beings, including each of us, all spiritual teachings, including Yoga, all languages, including Vedic language, all scriptures, including the Vedas, everything has emanated from this primordial vibration!

Human system is capable of producing only three fundamental sounds – A, U and M. All other sounds are produced by permutation and combination of these three sounds. AUM is the marriage of these three fundamental sounds – A, U and M. Let’s do an experiment: Keep your tongue still – hold it with your hand. Then try producing different sounds. You’ll be able to produce only three sounds – A, U and M. Tongue is that ingenious instrument, with the help of other parts of oral cavity, which helps you produce all different types of sounds. That is why these three are called the root sounds.

Let’s do another experiment: sit down straight and chant A…, U…, and M… one by one. Do you feel any vibration anywhere when you chant them separately? A vibrates Manipura chakra (lower abdomen) to chest, U vibrates upper chest to throat, and M vibrates the whole head. This one sound AUM vibrates your whole body from inside! There are 72,000 nadis in the body and they meet 3/4th of an inch below naval. The sound of AUM produces vibration in this Manipura chakra. Each one of these sounds activates certain nadis and produces effect in certain dimension of your energy system. Vibration produces sound and sound produces creation…! Sound can create, maintain or annihilate.

Science tells us that all matter is formed of molecules, which are further made up of the smallest indivisible particles called atoms. Atoms are further made up of sub-atomic particles – electrons, neutrons, protons, pi-ons, mesons etc. Each one of these sub-atomic structures is particulate as well as wave in nature. Each sub-atomic particle is further divisible into quarks which are only wave in nature, a form of energy. So, all of us are, in the true essence, made up of energy. We are just condensed energy forms! Einstein formulated his famous equation that E = mc², where E stands for energy, m stands for mass, and c is a constant. So, this equation shows that energy is directly proportional to the mass, meaning that mass cannot be destroyed or created; it can just change from one form into another. OM or AUM symbolises that everything in any macrocosm or microcosm, is a state of energy originated from that primordial vibration.

But unlike all other mantra, there is no meaning of OM. It is actually not a word, it is a sound. As per Hindu tradition, OM is the purest name of God. It is the sound of the supreme consciousness. So when you repeat OM, you actually take the name of God. Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati was founder of the ‘Arya Samaj’. He used to write ‘ Ao3m' instead of 'Aom ‘. The ‘3 ‘ (Devanagari digit 3) between O and M is called ‘ploot’. Swami Dayanand used ‘ploot’ to emphasize long pronunciation of ‘O’. Only followers of Swami Dayanand Saraswati (members of ‘Arya Samaj’) write ‘ Ao3m' instead of 'ॐ'. The syllable that is prior to a ploot is pronounced for a longer time/period (more than double). So ' Ao3m ‘ is to be pronounced as OOOm (o…m).

Om in Sanatan Dharma. Sanatan means old. Indian mystical and philosophical thinking is impregnated with Om, mentioned widely n the Upanishads, Tantras, Puranas, Samkhyas and Yoga Vashishta. It symbolises the essence of Sanatan Dharma (the Eternal Way), commonly known as Hinduism – the tolerant and profound conglomeration of spiritual thinking and practice from which Yoga has come. Om is widely known as the ‘Mahat Mantra’ – ‘the great mantra’. Om is not directly mentioned in Rig Veda, probably because it was considered too sacred to utter or even write down. Om is first mentioned, albeit indirectly, in the Yajur Veda in verse 1:1 where it is known as the ‘pranava’ – ‘the humming sound’- or ‘udgitha’ – ‘the elevating chant’. Interestingly, no graphic representation of Om has yet been found in the extensive excavations of the so called Indus Valley civilization (circa 3000 BC, though probably much older). The reason may be either that Om was considered too sacred to be graphically represented, or that it had not yet been realised and brought into mainstream spiritual practice. The oldest direct references and descriptions of Om are to be found in the Upanishads which are considered to contain the essential teachings of the Vedas.

Om in the Mandukya Upanishad. The Mandukya Upanishad is the shortest of the Upanishads – the scriptures of Hindu Vedanta. It is in prose, consisting of twelve verses expounding the mystic syllable Aum, the three psychological states of waking, dreaming and sleeping, and the transcendent fourth state of illumination (Atyanta shunyata). This Upanishad has been greatly extolled. Muktikopanishad, says that the Mandukya Upanishad alone is enough for salvation. According to Dr Radhakrishnan, it contains the fundamental approach to reality.

The Mandukya Upanishad is exclusively dedicated to explaining the significance of Om. It says that Om symbolises everything manifest and yet it has its origin in the Unmanifest. In its analysis it writes Om as Aum with each of the three syllables having specific significance.

There are three mātrās (“letters”, syllabic instants in prosody) in the word aum: ‘a’, ‘u’ and ‘m’.

The ‘a’ stands for the state of wakefulness, where we experience externally through our mind and sense organs. The ‘u’ stands for the dream state, in which inward experiences are available. In the state of deep sleep, represented by the sound ‘m’, there is no desire and consciousness is gathered in upon itself.

But there is a fourth, transcendent state, that of one “who is neither inwardly nor outwardly aware, nor both inward and outward, nor with consciousness infolded on itself, who is unseen and ineffable, ungraspable, featureless, unthinkable and unnameable.” The fourth state (turīya avasthā) corresponds to silence as the other three correspond to AUM. It is the substratum of the other three states. It is referred to as atyanta-shunyata (absolute emptiness).

Om in Indian Classical Music.

The phonemes of the Vedic hymns and the seven fundamental nodes – Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni of the Indian classical music have originated (distinctly recognized by the Rishis) from the vibrations of the sublime sound of Om in the Nature. The Vedic quote – ‘Ekoham Bahusyami’ implies that all the sounds, all the energies, all the motions and everything existing in the universe have originated from the vibrations of this single anahata nada. This is the source of the manifestation of the Shabda-Brahm and the Nada Brahm.

Om in the Bhagavad Gita. Om is widely mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita where the mantra Om is an essential part of its teachings and practice. Krishna tells Arjuna:

‘O Arjuna, I am the taste of pure water, and the light of the moon and the sun.

I am the essential nature of the mantra Om mentioned in the holy scriptures,

the sound in ether, as well as the courage and virility of human beings.’

verse 7.8

Krishna, who symbolises underlying Intelligence or Consciousness, is the essence of Om. Om, as sound vibration, is an expression of this underlying Consciousness. Therefore, by practising Mantra or Gyana Yoga (or even Bhakti Yoga) we can trace Om back to its source. In this way, we are enabled to realise the nature of Consciousness.

Krishna talks of death and the importance of chanting Om at the time of death:

‘The mantra Om symbolises Reality. At the time of death, repeat Om and you will go forth from the body and attain the Supreme Goal.’

verse 8.13

From the Yogic viewpoint, death is not just the time of disintegration of the physical body, but also a golden opportunity of directly realising our Immortal or Deathless Essence. Chanting Om at the point of death can be a valuable part of this process.

Krishna also says that all spiritual practices should be initiated with Om:

Indeed, this is what we often do before starting Yoga practice or Meditation – we chant Om a few time, either aloud or mentally, whether alone or in a group. Try it! It works wonders.

Symbolism of the Syllables of Aum. A, U and M, both as syllables and as sounds, as well as the silence after chanting Aum, symbolise a number of different things as follows:

Aum can be chanted by feeling the resonance of ‘A’ in the abdomen, then allowing the ‘U’ to resonate in the chest and finally, feeling the ‘M’ vibration in the head.

A = abdomen

U = chest/throat

M = head

After the sound of Aum there is silence; this symbolises that which is ‘above’ the head (i.e. beyond thinking), the ineffable: Spirit, or Consciousness.

According to the Mandukya Upanishad, the syllables of Aum represent the following realms of experience:

A = jagrat (waking state)

U = swapna (dreaming state)

M = sushupti (deep sleep state)

After chanting Aum there is silence; this symbolises the spiritually awakened state, which transcends the previous three states.

The three syllables of Aum symbolise the three levels of mind as follows:

A = conscious

U = subconscious

M = unconscious

After chanting Aum there is silence; this represents the Super-consciousness state which transcends the previous three states.

According to Yoga, Tantra, Samkhya and Vedanta, the whole of nature, including the human mind and body, is made up of the three gunas (Sanskrit, ‘guna’, qualities):

sattwa (harmony, clarity and light);

rajas (passion and dynamism); and

tamas (ignorance, darkness and inertia).

The three syllables of Aum symbolise these three gunas as follows:

A = tamas

U = rajas

M = sattwa

After chanting Aum there is silence; this symbolises the state of trigunatita (Sanskrit, tri, three; atita, beyond) – that which transcends the three gunas, i.e. Pure Consciousness.

The three syllables of AUM symbolise the three principles of existence symbolised by Brahma, the creative; Vishnu, the sustaining; and Shiva, the destructive:

A = Brahma

U = Vishnu

M = Shiva

After chanting Aum there is silence; this symbolises underlying Reality which is the substratum behind, and beyond, creation (Brahma), sustenance (Vishnu) and destruction (Shiva).

The three syllables of AUM symbolise the three realms of time: past, present and future:

A = Present

U = Past

M = Future

After chanting Aum there is silence; this symbolises underlying Reality which underlies and yet is beyond past, present and future; the Timeless out of which time emerges.

Beyond Aum-the Transcendental. According to the Mandukya Upanishad, the Transcendental State is called turiya (Sanskrit, the fourth) – that which is beyond and yet encompasses the three states symbolised by A, U and M. Hence, in order to discourage us from putting a concept on something which is beyond concept, it is simply and succinctly called ‘the fourth.’

Turiya can be symbolised as follows:

The circle symbolises Turiya, underlying Reality. It includes jagrat, the conscious waking state (A); it includes swapna, the dream, or subconscious state (U); and it includes and yet is beyond shushupti, the causal, unconscious state (M). Though not necessarily visible to eyes, the first three states exist in, and are part of, the manifest universe.

Turiya includes all of these three states or levels of manifest reality, and yet it is beyond them. It encompasses them and yet transcends them.

It is the unseen substratum which can only be realised when our mind dissolves into Consciousness – when, to use an expression attributed to the sage Ramakrishna, the ‘salt doll dissolves in the ocean.’

Plunging through the Centre of Infinity. There is a well-known and ancient hermetic statement:

‘Reality is a circle whose centre is everywhere and whose circumference is no-where.’

There are many levels of interpretation, one of which was pointed out by Giordano Bruno. He said that whereas finite space, no matter how large it is, can have only one centre, infinite space has its centre everywhere. Mathematically, infinite space has an infinite number of centres.

One hundred years later, Leibnitz, the German mathematician, inspired by Bruno’s thinking, tried to explain the same thing with his theory of the Monad (‘monas’ is ancient Greek for ‘unit.’). Leibnitz described each centre of infinity as a ‘monad.’

Each single monad contains the reflection of the entire universe – which is in agreement with modern Quantum theory as well as many mystical systems including Yoga and Tantra.

The Hua Yen (or Kegon) School of Chinese Buddhism has tried to explain this even further with the image of Indra’s Jewel Net where there are an infinite number of jewels in each of which is reflected all the other jewels together. Also, each of the jewels reflected in this one jewel also reflects all the other jewels, so that there is an infinite reflecting process going on. This gives an idea of infinitely repeated interrelationship among everything in the universe.

In Yoga, each centre of infinity is called bindu. Each monad, each particle of existence, is impregnated with energy and Consciousness. Each bindu is in intimate contact with every other bindu. Each bindu shares with the Totality and the Totality shares with each bindu. The Primordial Vibration, symbolized by Om, resonates through each of these infinite number of centres. By chanting Om (or any other mantra), we move from a state of extroversion and dissipation to a more introspective, harmonious state.

Centring ourselves in Meditation, we are able to ‘touch’ the bindu (the Transcendental Point, symbolised by the dot in the top of the Om symbol Å). Plunging through this Bindu (which exists everywhere), we can realise the nature of Reality.

The Bindu of the Human Personality. Each and every embodied being is an expression of Shiva (Consciousness; underlying Reality) acting through the medium of Shakti (Energy; the Quantum Vacuum). As we have already said, each bindu (particle) of existence acts as a conduit for the flow of creative energy represented by the raif.

But the bindu of the human personality is known as the Anandamaya Kosha, the Blissful Sheath or Causal Body. This is the nucleus of our existence as an embodied being. In Meditation, we are in contact with this level of our being, and we can be catapulted into osmotic contact and realisation of underlying Consciousness. As Eckhart, the medieval German mystic, said:

“The eye with which I see God is the same as that with which He sees me.”

That is, Reality ‘sees’ us (i.e. is in constant and intimate contact with us) through the bindu, but we can also reciprocate by ‘tuning’ into Reality through the bindu (by ‘seeing’ through the same ‘eye’). The bindu, here the Anandamaya Kosha, allows us to realise Reality. Or, more correctly, we should say that the bindu is the point through which the Cosmic Consciousness realises itself through the individual consciousness.

When we chant Om we focus on the resonance which is the raif. Our being gets absorbed in this vibration and this has the power to lead us back, via the bindu, to realise the underlying nature or Consciousness which is beyond the bindu.

All this is indicated by the symbol of Å: it is a symbol of the process of manifestation or creation, the means by which we exist as embodied beings. But, at the same time, Aum also symbolises the process of return, where through practice (Sanskrit, sadhana) we can realise our essential Roots.

The Analogy of the Lotus. The lotus flower is an archetypal symbol of the evolutionary potential and development of each human being.

The lotus has three stages of growth and can be related to A-U-M as follows:

The roots that sink deep in the mud correspond to ‘A’; the stem, as it grows through the water, corresponds to ‘U’; and the bud and the flower above the water facing the Sun is ‘M’. We are born in the womb, the matrix of matter (the roots in the mud); we grow up, developing the intellect, learning about our emotions and the ways of the world (the stem in the water of life); finally, we can blossom like the beautiful lotus flower when we realise our eternal connection with Spirit (our petals unfurl in the Sun).

Put in other terms, we can say that the lotus symbolises our growth in life as we pass through the three gunas: where we start in the mud of tamas (ignorance; identification with our physical form), pass through the waters of rajas (emotions, passion, ambition and furious activity) and finally, through refinement of our understanding (perhaps having practised Yoga or some related system), we arrive in the fresh air and clear sky of sattwa (harmony, joy and clarity). Then we are enabled to realise the Reality (the sun) which far transcends our individuality (symbolised by the lotus).

A-U-M and the lotus symbolise this whole process to supreme fulfilment of our lives.

From the Circle to the Point. During chanting, the sound of Om starts with a circle and ends with a point. During pronunciation, the lips are slightly apart with ‘A’, slowly starting to close with ‘U’ until they are completely closed with ‘M’.

There is, at first, expansion outwards and then contraction inwards. Try it for yourself.

This indicates the path of Yoga: starting from a more or less (mentally and emotionally) dissipated state (represented by the circle), where we search for meaning externally, in the world at large, we start Yoga and progressively move to a more unified state where we are centred in Being (represented by the point). Every time we chant Om we are symbolising the path towards Unity.

Om in other Mantras. Om is an integral part of most other mantras used in Yoga (Om Namah Shivaya, Gayatri Mantra, Mrityunjaya Mantra etc.). Om precedes other mantras since it symbolises Consciousness and without Consciousness, nothing can exist. Without the presence of underlying Intelligence, the mantra has no value and no power to transform; indeed it cannot even exist! Om is the very core, the bed-rock, of all sounds and all other mantras. Without that which is symbolised by Om nothing can exist, including each of us.

Om takes us Home. Our essential nature, our original home, is Consciousness. H-O-M-E is composed of OM encompassed by HE; Therefore, OM is the essence of HE (Underlying Intelligence). Chanting Om helps us to realise the roots of our Being, and in the deepest sense takes us homeward.

Om Symbolises:

The vibration of God.

Truth, the Absolute.

The ‘hum’ of the universe.

Liberation and the means to it.

Om Symbolises and Encourages:

The descent of Universality into the human heart.

The descent of the Infinite into the finite.

The expression of the Unconditioned into the conditioned.

The descent of the Formless into form.

How to chant AUM

AUM can be chanted slowly or quickly. Each method is as good as the other and you must experiment yourself to find out your own preference.

Benefits of chanting AUM

AUM, pronounced correctly, arouses and transforms every atom in the physical body, setting up new vibrations and conditions, and awakening the sleeping power of the body.

The chanting of AUM drives away all worldly thoughts and removes distractions.

If you are depressed, chant AUM for 10 minutes, you will be filled with new vigour and strength.

Chanting of AUM gives energy.

Continuous practice of AUM helps in improving the brain capacity and memory. Our capacity to grasp any knowledge increases. Our mind becomes more active and we are able to take decisions quickly. Chanting of AUM stimulates sleeping brain centres.

Just 5 minutes of AUM chanting gives calmness and relaxation to our body and mind. Chanting of AUM improves confidence level and prepares us to face the adverse circumstances of life.

AUM removes nervousness and fears from the mind.

Chanting of AUM before bed gives sound sleep. The problems of Insomnia and scary dreams are addressed by AUM chanting.

To learn more about mindfulness and breathing based free e-course and the science behind it, and for certification, please go to the link and register.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

What do Mindfulness and Breathing do?As science has shown, the function of frontal cortex (FC) involves intuition, long term memory, the ability to recognize future consequences resulting from current actions, the choice between good and bad, the override and suppression of socially unacceptable responses, and the determination of similarities and differences between things or events. The frontal lobes play an important role in retaining memories associated with emotions derived from input from the brain’s limbic system and modify those emotions to generally fit socially acceptable norms.

Executive functions of optimal intelligence, functionality and wellness have been specifically linked to a highly active and energized DLPFC (dorso-lateral pre-frontal cortex, a part of frontal cortex). DLPFC, together with other connected areas of the brain, is assumed to be important in working memory and executive function, including the regulation of thinking and action: the dorsal pathway, which is primarily supported by the parietal cortex, attempts to ascertain which responses should be executed, called the how system. The ventral pathway, which is significantly supported by the temporal cortex, attempts to characterize the features and attributes of the stimuli in the environment, sometimes called the what system.

Mindfulness and Breathing-based Healing (MBH)

Practiced and perfected by Yogis in India for thousands of years, the techniques of yoga asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), dhyana (meditation) and other techniques were handed down from generation to generation. These techniques have a profound positive effect on health. Several scientific studies have already corroborated their significance and more studies are pouring in with each passing day! A recent study on effect of meditation in breast cancer patients has confirmed the effect of meditation on chromosomes.

There is a scientific, time-proven and natural way to activate, awaken, energize and sustain high cerebral as well as DLPFC functioning: this method of meditation and contemplation based on mindfulness, breathing exercises, and more, involves systematic awareness of all levels of our being, including actions/senses, body, breath, mind, finally resting in the awareness of the Self, which becomes one with the universal consciousness. This mindfulness and breathing based ‘Breathe and Heal’ Therapy has been developed on the basis of ancient yogic wisdom combined with modern methodology of scientific research and clinical investigation. Based on proven techniques, more work is on and is being scientifically verified; it is in complete agreement with both, yoga and medical wisdom.

Based on effective mindfulnessandbreathing techniques, validated by the stringent test of time and the millions who tried them, and backed and refined by my almost three decades of clinical experience in main-stream Medicine, Surgical Oncology, Neurosurgery and other Super Specialities at premier medical institutes in India, study and work in other AlternativeMedicine and Yoga, and an input of thousands of hours of educated and qualified clinical research and its deep analysis in India, these breathing and other techniques have been proved to actually deliver! It is a true breakthrough course based on yoga as a neuro-endo-physiological science for integral/holistic personal transformation. Professionals experienced and well-versed in yoga resonate the same, and recognize its potential for consciousness and transformation work.

Benefits

Practiced diligently, Mindfulness and Breathing-Based Healing e-course will take you towards complete balance in body, mind and spirit. Helping you overcome physical, psychological and mental ailments is one of the main objectives of the course; more awareness and awakened living, increased intuitive creativity and enhanced higher brain functioning can be some of the advanced benefits of this course. Eventually, this method of meditation and contemplation leads to expansion of consciousness and awakening to the ever peaceful, joyous center of your being. This can help with relationship issues, conflict, anger, PTSD, communication, addiction etc. It can help you find your voice and identify, understand and work through barriers that keep you stuck. The benefits are unlimited….

This introductory free e-course course on Mindfulness and Breathing-Based Healing is designed to be the beginning of that journey, and to the fact that yoga really is the way towards greater, expanded consciousness. Some of the benefits are:

Anxiety Reduction

Stress Management

Better Focus, Concentration & Memory

Better Creativity

Speed Learning

Positive Attitude

Confidence Building

Management of Depression, other Mood Disorders

Energy Boosting

Physical Health

Psychic Development

Sleep Improvement

As a physician with almost three decades of experience in Medicine and more than that in Yoga and Yoga Therapy, I have been really impressed with the results I could get with these techniques. It’s my mission to share my experience and knowledge with one and all, especially students and also my colleagues in Health, Yoga, Holistic Health, Alternative Medicine, Mental Health, Addictions Recovery, Life Coaching and Leadership fields.

Yoga professionals can apply for a certificate for non-contact CEU’s at a non-refundable fee of $120 (+HST). For this, along with the fee, you can submit the practice sheet and a one page description of what you learned and how you will be incorporating what you learned into your life.

Professionals from other fields should check with their regulatory bodies first. To get a certificate they can follow the same procedure as Yoga professionals.

Joint Ventures

In the coming times, we are going to train more and more people in these Mindfulness and Breathing –based Healing techniques, set up joint ventures with yoga clinics, hospitals, studios, schools, organizations etc. If you are interested, we would love to hear from you.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc. (Alternative Medicine), Ph.D. (Alternative Medicine),MD (Alternative Medicine), M.B.,B.S., Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist and Yoga Teacher in London ON. A Surgeon by profession from India, he started his Surgical career in a Cancer Hospital in India and in his Surgical career over almost next three decades, performed thousands of breast cancer and other surgeries. He utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfil your aspirations!

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 35,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfil your aspirations!

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 36,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. As a student, he won many dance competitions and received many awards in dance. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfil your aspirations!

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 38,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfill your aspirations!

Payment plans available.

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 35,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfill your aspirations!

Payment plans available.

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

(We provide YTT in Yoga Retreats all around the world also)

Your Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc. (Alternative Medicine), Ph.D. (Alternative Medicine),MD (Alternative Medicine), M.B.,B.S., Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist and Yoga Teacher in London ON, with almost three decades of experience as a practicing Surgeon and over 38,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join NOW and fulfil your aspirations!

For schedule and any more details of the course, please contact Studio.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

Work with our amazing SAVY Yoga Guardians who will lovingly and skillfully help you develop deeper as a student and teacher of Yoga. You’ll receive development and mentoring support as well as learn key ways to teach from your heart, attract from your deepest intention and create a flow of well-being, prosperity and joy for yourself and your Yoga community.

SAVY International Inc. has cultivated a reputation as a centre of professional, inspiring, compassionate yoga and wellness studies. We have the bestteachers who have a true love of yoga and live its teachings day in and day out. Our teachers understand and appreciate the importance of every student and feel compelled to provide exceptional service to achieve complete customer satisfaction.

Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 35,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Join now and attend upcoming training programs!

ENROL BEFORE

DECEMBER 31, 2015

Program Objectives

The vision of this program is to support you in your endeavour to integrate and enhance the theory and practice of yoga as you experienced it in your teacher training. The core of the program offers you accountability, support and guidance through various assignments, tasks and responsibilities.

The Mentorship Program offers graduates of any 200-hour Teacher Training a unique and exciting opportunity to continue learning and to practice and live yoga as active members of a thriving yoga community. By joining our Mentorship Program, you will become a critical part of a practicing larger Yoga community.

You can also join optional 100 Hour Yoga Teaching Practice Package to fulfill Yoga Alliance condition to register as RYT 500 after you complete the course.

The salient points of Registered and Inexpensive Yoga Teacher Training at SAVY are:

Delve deep into the field of Yoga – Keep learning and sharing knowledge

Suitable time of classes

Small size of even group classes

Small Class Yoga for smaller groups

Private sessions also available

Decent studio setting – enjoy the calm, serene surroundings

Plenty of Free Parking

Most affordable Yoga Classes

Terms and Conditions: Black Friday Yoga Sale 2014 (BFYS14) not valid with any other offers. For first timers only – you’ll be considered a first timer if you’ve not attended any class at SAVY Studios in last six months. Non-refundable, non-transferable, cannot be shared. No cash-back/ credit. Please present it when you come for classes. Valid for 99 days from the date of purchase. Promotional value and Gift Certificate expire on March 8. Total value expires if registered and used even once. One buy for personal use, unlimited for gifts. Unlawful to duplicate. Valid for group (Green and Yellow) classes at specified location(s) only. Not applicable for Special/ Yoga Therapy/ Master Classes. Please register online and pre-book your class. SAVY International Inc. reserves the right to alter the terms & conditions and prices at discretion. *Conditions apply.

Please be in time for the class.

To claim your Yoga Classes

Fill up Registration Form

Call at 519-701-2609 or email at savyint@gmail.com to pre-book your place in class.

Please like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/savyinternationalinc and subscribe to newsletter on website for latest updates and offers.

Winter has set in, Christmas is close by, 2015 is just around the corner, and it is time for festivities!

And it’s raining gifts for all savvy SAVY Yogis!

SAVY, as you know well, stands for the best and the safest in the field of Yoga, Yoga Education, Yoga Therapy, Yoga Research and related fields.

With Christmas, our incomparable offers for Yoga Classes are back.

On this occasion, in line with our promise of bringing the best to you at the most affordable rates, we have kept SAVY Studios the most affordable Yoga Studios in London. Keeping our promise of providing the most economical Yoga Classes in Canada too, we have more good news for you here!

99-Yoga Classes for $99*

*Conditions apply

Available till quantities last.

So, just hurry up!

We prefer cash at Studio.

Or

Practise real yoga under one of the most qualified and experienced faculty in the world!

Delve deep into the field of Yoga – Keep learning and sharing knowledge

Suitable time of classes

Small size of even group classes

Small Class Yoga for smaller groups

Private sessions also available

Decent studio setting – enjoy the calm, serene surroundings

Plenty of Free Parking

Most affordable Yoga Classes

Terms and Conditions: Christmas Gift Certificate 2014 (CGC14) not valid with any other offers. For first timers only – you’ll be considered a first timer if you’ve not attended any class at SAVY Studios in last six months. Non-refundable, non-transferable, cannot be shared. No cash-back/ credit. Please present it when you come for classes. Valid for the months of November, December, January and February. Promotional value and Gift Certificate expire on February 28. Total value expires if registered and used even once. One buy for personal use, unlimited for gifts. Unlawful to duplicate. Valid for group (Green and Yellow) classes at specified location(s) only. Please register online and pre-book your class. SAVY International Inc. reserves the right to alter the terms & conditions and prices at discretion. *Conditions apply.

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Beat the Beast

SAVY International Inc./ SAVY Yoga Studio has started a novel series Beat the Beast – a series of 10-day workshops, each one targeted at different major diseases as well as positive health. Under this series, we offer workshops on some very useful Yoga routines including yoga postures, breathing exercises, marma therapy, nada yoga, shithilakaran, meditation techniques, mudras, kriyas, and a lot more – all that which is specifically effective for the said health issue and has a proven role in the care of that particular state. Participants will be required to attend 90-minute classes for the specified 10 days.

Yoga for Diabetes Mellitus

Claiming Your Health Back from Diabetes

Beat the Beast series, based on Yoga, Pranayama, Nada, Marmas, Meditation and more, offers immense healing potential for the body, mind and spirit.

Diabetes is a long-term condition that causes high blood sugar levels. In 2013 it was estimated that over 382 million people throughout the world had diabetes. In Type 1 Diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Approximately 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1. In Type 2 Diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin for proper function. Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type. Gestational Diabetes, this type affects females during pregnancy. The most common diabetes symptoms include : Polyuria – frequent urination, Polydipsia – intense thirst, and Polyphagia – intense hunger. Weight gain, unusual weight loss, fatigue, cuts and bruises that do not heal, male sexual dysfunction, numbness and tingling in hands and feet are also commonly reported symptoms. In Type 1 Diabetes, if you follow a healthy eating plan, do adequate exercise, and take insulin, you can lead a normal life. In Type 2, patients need to eat healthily, be physically active, and test their blood glucose. They may also need to take oral medication, and/or insulin to control blood glucose levels. Yoga is not just physical stretching, but it is a whole science of life!Yoga and Ayurveda offer many ways of helping in diseases. SAVY offers programs based on Yoga, Marma, Kriyas, Mudras, effective breathing techniques and other healing elements of Yoga. Validated by the stringent test of time and the millions who tried them in the past, and backed and refined by Dr Sahdev’s almost three decades of superlative clinical experience at the fore-front of main-stream Medicine, inspired by his work in Surgical Oncology, Neurosurgery and other Super Specialitiesat premier medical institutes in India, his study and work in other Alternative modalities and Yoga, and an input of thousands of hours of educated and qualified clinical research and its deep analysis in India, these breathing and other techniques havebeen proved to actually deliver! Right from the day of SAVY‘s inception, we’ve put benefits of all the advanced and superlative skills and knowledge on offer for the benefit of humanity under our Yoga Therapy programs, specifically including Dr Sahdev’s ‘Breathe and Heal’ Program. In a study done on effect of yoga in Diabetes-2 cases, yoga resulted in significant reduction in BMI, glycemic control, and malondialdehyde and increase in glutathione and vitamin C and helps in reducing oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes. Yoga in addition to standard care helps reduce BMI and improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients.

We offer very well-structured, effective, advanced and result-oriented programs for Diabetes care as well as other diseases. These are the methods which work at cellular level and root out any insufficiency. As studies are proving, Yoga has a definite role to play in Diabetes mellitus management.

The out-of-pocket expenses associated with diabetes remain a substantial portion of disposable income and a barrier to the prevention of diabetes-related complications. The estimated total economic cost of diagnosed diabetes in 2012 in USA was $245 billion, a 41% increase from our previous estimate of $174 billion (in 2007 dollars). This highlights the substantial burden that diabetes imposes on society. Additional components of societal burden include intangibles from pain and suffering, resources from care provided by non-paid caregivers, and the burden associated with undiagnosed diabetes.

What do I learn in a Yoga for Diabetes Mellitus Workshop?

You will be practicing a capsule of extremely useful exercises, physical as well as mental, in a time-bound manner. This program sets you on a course to perfection in body, mind and spirit! This could truly be a LIFE TRANSFORMING experience for you. Whether you are brand new to yoga or are a seasoned yoga practitioner, you will find this yoga workshop a truly rewarding experience physically, emotionally, medically, socially and spiritually. You will learn, in a nutshell, about diabetes mellitus symptoms, their pathogenesis according to Modern Medicine and the Yoga/ Ayurveda perspective. You’ll also be given an overview of all major modalities of treatment available. You’ll be given an overview of the role of yoga in these diseases. Based on DSBH Therapy and Dr. Sahdev’s clinical work in India spanning over three decades, we’ll introduce you to a system of breathing retraining and routine of yogic exercises. This system has:

Scientific basis – based on the standard principles of yoga and breathing, guidelines of the science of breathing – Pranayama and supported by research

Natural – it’s all natural and no supplements, vitamins, pills are advised

Drug-free – categorically no drugs are involved in any form

Potent – as medical research into their effectivity has shown so far, these methods are quite effective and potent, and in good hands and with proper guidance, success rate is quite predictable

Beat the Beast – Yoga for Diabetes Mellitus workshop sets you on a course to perfection in body, mind and spirit! As the latest studies suggest, it can be useful for prevention as well as during treatment.

Here are some of the benefits of attending this program:

This program sets you on a course to perfection. You learn healthy habits which you can continue to follow.

At the completion of the program, develop an on-going daily practice of your own.

PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!

The benefits of a regular practice cannot be over-emphasised!

Natural weight management.

Develop a body that is more flexible, healthier and stronger.

Learn how to manage stress effectively.

Reduce chronic pain.

Develop the habit of waking up early, thus leaving much more of the day for yourself.

Morning yoga gives you abundant energy and vitality for the rest of the day.

Develop a strong will-power.

Detoxify and cleanse your body.

Develop healthier eating habits.

There are innumerable other benefits beyond this list.

Also, this workshop will give you an overview of Diabetes Mellitus, symptoms, their pathogenesis according to Modern Medicine and the Yoga/ Ayurveda perspective. It introduces you to yoga and breathing re-training which is completely natural, safe, potent, effective and totally drug-free. You receive advice on management. If you are suffering from Insomnia, Panic Attacks or Sleep Apnoea the appropriate advice will be applicable to improve these specific conditions too. The Workshop teaches you strategies which help you to optimize health. The aim is to learn yoga routine to help you lead a normal healthy life again.

You’ll get guidance and aid to continue doing that after attending workshop. You can also opt for follow-up plans. All this helps you deal with the problem in a more systematic and positive way.

Expected Outcome

At cellular level, this routine will put on a road to recovery from disease and senescence

The workshop is most useful for those people who are prepared to take time and responsibility to control their problems. The workshop will be useful to anybody who can follow instructions, do breathing exercises and wants to learn more about his/ her problems and is open to newer medically-documented solutions. It is useful for people with all types and degrees of severity of stress and anxiety as well as people with other disorders such as insomnia, snoring, sleep apnoea and panic attacks. It is also effective in reducing chronic fatigue. It works for those who are and remain willing and motivated to act upon the advice given in the workshop.

What does Beat the Beast workshop entail?

Beat the Beast workshop consists of 90-minute practice on each day, for 10 week – days. Clients learn yoga and breathing exercises. These exercises are known and proven to be effective and help in recovery.

It’s vital to learn correct and proper techniques for yoga and breathing exercises. Dr. Jitender K Sahdev, President at SAVY International Inc. and creator of Yoga and Pranayama programs at SAVY, has been working in India as a Surgeon for the last almost three decades, is one of the most qualified and experienced Yoga experts in the world with an E-RYT 500 from Yoga Alliance, USA, is a Yoga Therapist and a member of International Association of Yoga Therapists, USA, and has M.D., Ph.D. and D.Sc. degrees in Alternative Medicine. He has worked in Neurosurgery, Surgical Oncology, Critical Care, and many other Super Specialities in India. The programs are a result of a lifetime of the most exhaustive experience in Medicine, Alternative Medicine and Yoga. SAVY International Inc. is an RYS 200 and RYS 300 yoga school. Our registered yoga teachers have the highest ranks as yoga teachers, are Yoga Therapists and are trained and experienced DSBH Educators as well. We train yoga teachers, yoga therapists, Marma Therapists, DSBH Educators etc.

The workshop gives you a lot of information which is amazing in practical application. It consists of procedures and breathing exercises which are considered very useful and most are of proven value. We strive to bring the most comprehensive knowledge and proven application techniques to you.

4.Individualized approach

Because of small group size, you get individual attention and all your questions are answered and concerns addressed.

5.Competitive Cost

We offer the best value for money services. Free pre-workshop consultation, free Question-Answer sessions after workshop and training material for workshop. Under one of the most qualified faculty in the world, with one of the best programs, our costs are most competitive.

6.We Listen

Your feedback is a very important to us. We understand psychological and emotional aspects of dealing with a chronic health condition, and we use a persistent, but non-stressful, approach. Your co-operation is of paramount importance.

7.Best Support in Industry

We believe in a long and congenial Client – Practitioner relationship. All messages, emails and enquiries are answered promptly.

8.Commitment

We are result-oriented and committed to work, given the willingness and commitment on your part too.

9.We welcome a dialog with your Health-Care Provider

We understand that searching for the best available options is a goal of any chronic health condition management. Information about our programs and DSBH therapy is available on our website for your health care provider.

10.We are flexible

We understand the demands of modern life, costs in health and disease and respect your time. We’ll try our best to be flexible and accommodate your schedule.

An Overview of what you learn in ‘Beat the Beast’ Workshop

This programme will give you a better understanding, a sense of control and an improved quality of life right from Day 1. Practised regularly, with commitment, what you learn here will produce improvements in every area of life.

Day 1

filling up of registration and waiver form

introduction to Diabetes Mellitus

understanding the problems

introduction to disease monitoring

introduction to some exercises

Day 2 – Day 7

introduction to and practice of fuller routines of yoga postures and breathing exercises, in a graded manner

the importance of, and how to maintain 24 hour nasal breathing, even during sleep

Introduction to basic exercises in DSBH Therapy- Module 1, and the concept of Breath Holding Time (BHT)

practice of full routines of yoga postures, breathing exercises and other elements of yoga

DSBH Therapy and the concept of Breath Holding Time (BHT) in more detail

practise of vital breathing and mind/body relaxation techniques

Question- Answer Session

Feedback – we check your results to make sure you are practising correctly.

Schedule The program will consist of a group-based practice led by a knowledgeable and experienced instructor. Here are the details:

Dates:

November 21 to 30, 2014

November 16 to 20, November 23 to 27, 2015

Please confirm final dates with the studio at the time of registration.

Time: On week Days: 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM

Where: SAVY International South London Yoga Studio at 119-D Exeter Road London ON N6L 1A4

Formats: Two-week Format

Commitment:

A firm commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency). To underline the importance of this, you are required to sign a form stating the same at the beginning of the program. Missed classes will not be compensated in any way.

At the end of the program, continue the same practice at home or sign-up for other relevant programs to make it a life-long habit.

Cost: Total cost is $699 for 10-day workshop.

Components of Program:

Asana (physical postures/stretching)

Yoga Nidra/ Shithilikaran (relaxation)

Pranayama (breathing techniques)

Mudras and Kriyas

Meditation

Self Marma Massage of important Marma Bindus

Nada

Aum Chanting

Energy Healing

Chakra and Kundalini Awakening Exercises

General Ayurvedic Detox Diet advice

Pearls of Ancient Wisdom

Daily Practice will include:

Asana: We will practice a variety of relevant asanas (physical postures) during this period. Even though we shall maintain the same basic pattern, each day we might either introduce a new pose or practice variations of different poses. The asana practice will improve strength, flexibility, endurance and balance in different parts of the body. Also, asanas act on different Marma points and hence on Chakras.

Yoga Nidra/ Shithlikaran: Yoga Nidra/ Shithilikaran (deep relaxation) helps not only relax the body but also helps calm the nerves, the mind and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

Meditation: We shall practice a few simple but very effective meditation techniques.

Self-Marma Massage: Marma bindus are the energy points which connect to the chakras through nadis. Self-massage of various important marmas helps open up energy channels and balance chakras.

Nada: Nada (Indian Classical Music) notes have the same effect as the Marma bindu massage and help to open up and balance various chakras. We’ll be practising various notes and may even practice some compositions based on various ragas on different occasions.

AUM Chanting: AUM is the primordial sound and AUM chanting has a healing effect on all our sheaths. We’ll be investing some of our time in it daily.

Energy Healing: Various exercises are conducive to very positive energy fields around us while practicing in a group. We’ll be doing these exercises on different occasions.

Chakra and Kudalini Awakening Exercises: Various procedures, chants, exercises which help balance chakras and so are conducive to kundalini awakening in the long run will also be done.

Ayurvedic/ Yoga Dietary Advice: Importance of diet on the basis of body type, and its role in healing will also be highlighted. You will be given a general advice on diet throughout the program.

Yoga philosophy: Understanding of concepts of yoga philosophy will be shared while practicing asana, pranayama and meditation so we can develop a deeper understanding of the yoga practice as well as learn more.

As experts, we understand the importance of full-fledged training program, follow-up, support and encouragement on the road to recovery. We are committed to providing you as much help as you need to achieve your personal health goals.

You are encouraged to register for more advanced programs and go further on the road to recovery.

We also recommend making use of other specialized services available at SAVY Studio.In addition to committing to the yoga practice as outlined above, we would strongly urge you to commit to the following for the duration of the program:

Also, to help achieve your goals, we strongly recommend availing the following services at SAVY Studio:

Yoga Therapy Consultation

DSBH Therapy

Yoga Nutrition Programs

Marma Therapy

Mantra Consultation

Vedic Astrology Consultation

Ayurvedic Supplements Consultation

How To Join the Program

Decide about joining the program. You can come for a 15-minute Pre-Workshop consultation.

Check with us, or online if the space is available for the batch.

Make your payment on telephone or in person at the Yoga Studio.

Your spot will be reserved after receiving full payment.

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On World Diabetes Day – Diabetes Mellitus

World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated every year on November 14 to mark the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting of London ON, who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea leading to the discovery of insulin in 1921.

This day engages millions of people worldwide in diabetes advocacy and awareness. World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat of diabetes. It was adopted as an official United Nations Day in 2007 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225. The campaign draws attention to issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world. Healthy Living and Diabetes is the World Diabetes Day theme for 2014-2016.

The logo for World Diabetes Day is the blue circle – the global symbol for diabetes which was developed as part of the Unite for Diabetes awareness campaign.

Diabetes Mellitus

Around 250 B.C., the name “diabetes” was first used. The word diabetes comes from Greek, meaning a “siphon”. Araetus the Cappadocian, a Greek physician during the second century A.D., named the condition diabainein. He described patients who were passing too much water (polyuria) – like a siphon. The word became “diabetes” from the English adoption of the Medieval Latin diabetes.

In 1675, Thomas Willis added mellitus to the term, although it is commonly referred to simply as diabetes. Mel in Latin means “honey”; the urine and blood of people with diabetes has excess glucose, and glucose is sweet like honey. Diabetes mellitus could literally mean “siphoning off sweet water”.

In ancient India people observed that ants would be attracted to some people’s urine, because it was sweet. The term “Sweet Urine Disease” was coined.

Key Points

Diabetes is a long-term condition that causes high blood sugar levels.

In 2013 it was estimated that over 382 million people throughout the world had diabetes.

In Type 1 Diabetes – the body does not produce insulin. Approximately 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1.

In Type 2 Diabetes – the body does not produce enough insulin for proper function. Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type.

Gestational Diabetes – this type affects females during pregnancy.

The most common diabetes symptoms include

Polyuria – frequent urination

Polydipsia – intense thirst, and

Polyphagia – intense hunger.

Weight gain, unusual weight loss, fatigue, cuts and bruises that do not heal, male sexual dysfunction, numbness and tingling in hands and feet are also commonly reported symptoms.

In Type 1 Diabetes, if you follow a healthy eating plan, do adequate exercise, and take insulin, you can lead a normal life.

In Type 2, patients need to eat healthily, be physically active, and test their blood glucose. They may also need to take oral medication, and/or insulin to control blood glucose levels.

As the risk of cardiovascular disease is much higher for diabetics, it is crucial that blood pressure and cholesterol levels are monitored regularly.

As smoking might have a serious effect on cardiovascular health, diabetics should stop smoking.

Hypoglycemia – low blood glucose – can have a deleterious effect on patient.

Hyperglycemia – when blood glucose is too high – can also have a bad effect on the patient.

There are three types of diabetes:

1) Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

The body does not produce insulin. It is also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes, orearly-onset diabetes. People usually develop type 1 diabetes before their 40th year, often in early adulthood or teenage years. Approximately 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1. Patients with type 1 diabetes will need to take insulin injections for the rest of their life. They must also ensure proper blood-glucose levels by carrying out regular blood tests and following a special diet. The prevalence of type 1 Diabetes among the under 20s in the USA rose 23% between 2001 and 2009.

2) Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Beta cells in islets of Langerhans do not produce enough insulin for proper function, or the receptors in the body do not react to insulin (insulin resistance). Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type. Overweight and obese people have a much higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with more of central obesity are especially at risk. Being overweight/obese causes the body to release chemicals that can destabilize the body’s cardiovascular and metabolic systems. It may respond to simple measures such as : loss of weight, following a healthy diet, doing plenty of exercise, and monitoring blood glucose levels regularly. However, type 2 diabetes is typically a progressive disease. Drinking just one can of (non-diet) soda per day can raise our risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 22%. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes is also greater as we get older. Men whose testosterone levels are low have been found to have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

3) Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Diagnosis of gestational diabetes is made during pregnancy. This type affects females during pregnancy. Some women have very high levels of glucose in their blood, and their bodies are unable to produce enough insulin to transport all of the glucose into their cells, resulting in progressively rising levels of glucose.

The majority of gestational diabetes patients can control their diabetes with exercise and diet. Women whose diets before becoming pregnant were high in animal fat and cholesterol had a higher risk for gestational diabetes, compared to their counterparts whose diets were low in cholesterol and animal fats.

Pre-diabetes Mellitus

The vast majority of patients with type 2 diabetes initially have prediabetes. Their post-prandial blood glucose levels go higher than normal, but come back to normal. Studies indicate that some damage to the circulatory system and the heart may occur even at this stage.

Investigations

Doctors can determine whether a patient has a normal metabolism, is pre-diabetic or diabetic through three tests:

The Hb A1c test: Glycated hemoglobin (hemoglobin A1c, HbA1c, A1C, or Hb1c; sometimes also HbA1c or HGBA1C) is a form of hemoglobin that is measured primarily to identify the average plasma glucose concentration over prolonged periods of time.
– at least 6.5% means diabetes
– between 5.7% and 5.99% means pre-diabetes
– less than 5.7% means normal

Stroke– if blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood glucose levels are not controlled, the risk of stroke increases significantly

Erectile dysfunction– male impotence.

Infections– people with badly controlled diabetes are much more susceptible to infections

Healing of wounds– cuts and lesions take much longer to heal

Some Facts And Myths Regarding Diabetes

Many presumed myths keep making rounds. It is important to have an accurate picture of the disease. Some common diabetes myths are mentioned here:

People with diabetes should not exercise– THIS IS NOT TRUE! Exercise is important for people with diabetes, as it is for everybody else. Exercise helps manage body weight, improves cardiovascular health, improves mood, helps blood sugar control, and relieves stress. Yoga has been shown to have an important role. Patients should discuss exercise with their doctor first.

Fat people always develop type 2 diabetes eventually– Again, this is not true. Being overweight or obese raises the risk of becoming diabetic, they are risk factors, but do not mean that an obese person will definitely become diabetic.

Diabetes is a nuisance, but not serious– Diabetes is a serious disease. Two thirds of diabetes patients die prematurely from stroke or heart disease. The life expectancy of a person with diabetes is from five to ten years shorter than other people’s.

Children can outgrow diabetes– Child-onset diabetes is almost always type 1; insulin-producing beta cells in islets of Langerhans in pancreas do not produce insulin, so they will need to take insulin for the rest of their lives.

Don’t eat too much sugar, you will become diabetic– A person with diabetes type 1 develops the disease because immune system destroyed the insulin-producing beta cells. A diet high in calories, which can make people overweight/obese, raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially if there is a history of this disease in the family.

I know when my blood sugar levels are high or low– The only way to be sure about your blood sugar levels is to test it regularly. Even very slight rise in blood-glucose levels significantly raises the risk of ischemic heart disease.

Diabetes diets are different from other people’s– Experts say that there is no need to buy special diabetic foods because they offer no special benefit as compared to the healthy things we can buy in most shops. Diabetics just need to eat healthy.

High blood sugar levels are fine for some, while for others they are a sign of diabetes– High blood-sugar levels are never normal for anybody. Some illnesses, mental stress and steroids can cause temporary hikes in blood sugar levels in people without diabetes. Anybody with higher-than-normal blood sugar levels or sugar in their urine should be checked for diabetes.

Diabetics cannot eat bread, potatoes or pasta– People with diabetes can eat starchy foods. However, they must keep an eye on the size of the portions. Whole grain starchy foods are better, as is true for people without diabetes.

One person can transmit diabetes to another person– Diabetes is not infectious or contagious.

Only older people develop type 2 diabetes– A growing number of children and teenagers are developing type 2 diabetes. Experts say that this is linked to the explosion in childhood obesity rates, poor diet, and physical inactivity.

I have to go on insulin, this must mean my diabetes is severe– people take insulin when diet alone or diet with oral or non-insulin injectable medicines do not provide good-enough diabetes control. Insulin helps diabetes control. It does not usually have anything to do with the severity of the disease.

If you have diabetes you cannot eat chocolates or sweets– People with diabetes can eat chocolates and sweets if they combine them with exercise or eat them as part of a healthy meal, provided blood glucose level stays within normal limits.

Diabetes patients are more susceptible to colds and illnesses in general– A person with diabetes with good control is no more likely to become ill with a cold or something else than other people.

Ayurveda in Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes was known to ancient Ayurveda and Yoga experts thousands of years ago. The Indian physician Sushruta in 400 B.C. described the sweet taste of urine from affected individuals, and for many centuries to come, the sweet taste of urine was key to diagnosis. Diabetes Mellitus is known to Indians from Vedic period onwards by the name Asrava (Prameha). Diabetes is also known as Madhumeha (means passing sweet urine) in Ayurveda. The knowledge and effectiveness of diagnosis can be understood from the fact that Ayurveda has classified Diabetes (madhumeha) into 20 different types!

Types of diabetes , Causes and Symptoms

Two types of Prameha from management point of view has been described:

Krisha Pramehi (Lean Diabetic), and

Sthula pramehi (Obese Diabetic)

They are classified in Ayurveda on very similar grounds as Diabetics are classified in IDDM and NIDDM respectively.

On the very similar pattern we find the classification as

Sahaj pramehi (Congenital) and

Apathaya nimmitaj (due to overeating and wrong eating habits).

Ayurveda clearly defines diabetes. Diabetes Mellitus was known to Hindu Civilization since vedic period by the names:

Asrava(Prameha),

Madhumeha, or

Maharoga(Major Disease),

as almost all parts of the body and every cell of human physiology are affected.

It also disturbs 5 sheaths of the body –

annamaya kosha {Food sheath},

pranamayakosha{Energy sheath},

manomaya kosha{Mind Sheath},

vijnana maya kosha{IntellectualSheath} and

anandamaya kosha{Bliss Sheath}.

According to Ayurveda, prameha is divided in 4 major types (and total 21 types)

Kapha type (again divided into 10 types)

Pitta type (again divided into 6 types)

Vata type (divided into 4 types)

Juvenile diabetes for children (for unhealthy practices of parents and/or due to the sins of past-birth)

The main cause of prameha (diabetes) are lack of exercise and consumption of excess food having ushna, snigdha and guru nature. Foods that increase kapha, medhas and mootra are the major factors for prameha.

Sannipatha, kevala vathaja and kapha-vthaja(to some extent) and pitha-vathaja can be considered as IDDM. And others are considered as NIDDM.

1.

Sweda

Profuced Sweating

2.

Angagandham

Foul Smell of the Body

3.

Anga Shidhilathwam

Looseness of the body

4.

Sayyasna Swapnasukhabhishangithwam

Feeling of lethargy

5.

Hridayopadeham

Feeling of something coated or heaviness of hridaya.

6.

Netropadeham

Feeling of some thing coated on eyes

7.

Jhwopadeham

sensation of a coated tongue.

8.

Shravanopadeham

Feeling of coating on ears

9.

Anga ghanathwam

Heaviness of body parts

10.

Keshathivridhi

Excessive growth of hairs

11.

Nakhathivridhi

Excessive growth of Nails

12.

Sheetha priyathwam

Affinity towards cold

13.

Gala shosham

Dryness of throat

14.

Thalu shosham

Dryness of palate

15.

Asya madhuryam

Sweet taste in mouth

16.

Karadaham

Burning sensation of palms

17.

Pada daham

Burning sensation of soles

18.

Moothra madhuryam

Sweetness of urine

According to Sushruta, Dosha predominance is the primary factor in Diabetes Complication. According to him Malabandha (Constipation) is a complication of this disease as the patient has a concentration of Meda. In such cases laxatives of average doses are not effective.

According to Brihathrayees, pidika (diabetic carbuncle) is a major complication of prameha (Madhumeha).

Complications as per Dosha :-

Kaphaja

Avipakam– indigestion

Aruchi– Loss of appetite

Chardi– Vomiting tendency

Athinidra– Excessive sleep

Kasam– Cough

Peenasam– Cold with running nose

Pittaja

Vasthimehanyotoda – Pain in Bladder & urinary path

Mushkavatharanam – Pain in testes

Jwara– Fever

Daham– Burning sensation

Trishna– Thirst

Amlika– Acidity

Moorcha– Giddiness

Vitbhedanam– Loose Motion

Hridayashoola– Pain in heart region

Nidranasam– Loss of sleep

Vataja

Udavartham-Upward movement of vatha.

Kambam-Tremor

Hridgraham-Gripping pain in chest region

Lolatha-Affinity

Soolam-Pain

Anidratha-Insomnia

Sosha-Wasting

Kasam-Cough

Swasam-Difficulty to breath

Badhapureeshathwa –Constipation

According to Charaka. There are three types of prameha.

Sadhya – curable

Yapya – Palliable

Asadhya – Incurable

Sadhya: Describes patients who have been diagnosed very early in the onset of prameha (Madhumeha). In this category of patients , there can be those who are sthoola (obese) and the origin of their disease is in apathyaja (poor living habbits)

Yapya: Patients under this catagory have Pittaja prameha & certain types of kaphaja prameha.However Yapya (palliable) helps control the disease with treatment.

Asadhya: Describes the incurable version of prameha (Madhumeha) & inherited diabetes.Sahaja patients suffering from this variety are Krisha (lean)

Involvement of Ojas in Prameha (Madhumeha)

Ojas is the essence of life, an extract of the seven dhathus (Elements) Rasa(Chyle), Rakta (Blood),Mamsa (Muscles), Majja(Marrow), Asthi (Bone), Meda (Brain & Spinal Cord), Sukra (Sperm & Ovum), Ojas (Mahadhatu=Superior Dhatu) represented as bala {strength }of the body. The ojus in a healthy person determines the physical, psychic, sensory motor functions of the body. The biochemical component of the body which is reddish, white, slightly yellowish in colour residing in heart and other vital organs of the body. If ojas is distrubed, degeneration will be fast and result in decreased life span. In prameha the ojas (life essence) is expunged from the body through all navadwaras especially through urine & sweat.

Ojas gets imbalanced in prameha in two ways:

Through obstruction in blood vessels (srothorodha)

Degeneration of the body components is dhatu kshaya this can cause both cardiac & nervous system disorders.all this is ojakshaya meaning an imbalance in Ojus.

Management of Prameha (Madhumeha)

According to Ayurveda the line of treatment of prameha is strictly on individual’s constitution.

1) The prakrithi of the patient

2) Dosha predominance of disease

3) Dooshya vitiation

4) Obstruction in srothus

5) Manasika Prakrithi

6) Ahara & Vihara

7) Samskaras or Hereditary factors etc…

In general Diabetes Mellitus (Vathaja prameha) patients are advised to have Bhrimhana medication & diet which increases dhathus in the body.

Herbs useful in treatment of Diabetes :-

Specifications :-

Latin Name : Pterocarpus marsupium – leguminosae

Rasa (Taste) : Kashaya (Astrigent), Tikta (Bitter)

Guna (Characteristics ) – Lakhu (Light), Ruksha (Rough)

Veerya (Potency) – Sheeta (Cold)

Vipaka (Post digestion effect) – Katu (Pungent)

Actions according to Ayurveda :-

Rasayana : Vijaysar rejuvenates each and every cell of the body.

Raktasodhana : Vijaysar purifies the blood and removes all toxins from it.

Krimirogahar (Antihelmenthic) : Vijaysar is very useful in disease which originate from external causes like infection, worm infestation etc.

Pramehaghna : Vijaysar is useful in all disease which involve discoloration of urine including diabetes (Madhumeha).

For thousands of years, ancient physicians have been successfully treating Prameha with the Ayurvedic measures and drugs. Many drugs have already been screened for their anti-diabetic property/blood sugar lowering property. The importance of diet and exercise is also stressed in Ayurveda. The Ayurvedic diet regimens and the recipes may serve as a good replacement for the Diabetic patient. Though many of the diabetic drugs that are used today have a good sugar lowering (Hypoglycemic property they essentially act only symptomatically. The management modalities can be categorized as:

Vyaayam (Exercise),

Pathya (dietary regulation),

Panchakarma (Bio-purification procedures) and

The use of therapeutic measures (Medicines).

The herbal drugs used in the management of Prameha are bitter, astringent and pungent in taste. Some of the widely used herb apart from Vijaysar for the management of diabetes is as follows:

Eugenia jambolana:(Jamun beej churna) Dry seed powder of Jamun fruits have to be used in a dose of one-teaspoon twice/thrice daily with lukewarm water.

Gymnema sylvestre: (Gudmar patra churna) Dry leaves of this plant have to be used one teaspoon daily with lukewarm water. The leaves when chewed render the mouth tasteless to sweet for 45 min to one hour.

Pterocarpus marsupium (Vijaysar churna) Bark of this plant is available in the form of powder. Cubes or Vijaysaar glasses are also very popular & Effective. The piece of Vijaysaar is kept in water overnight or water is kept in the glass is consumed early morning on empty stomach. One should discard these cubes or glasses once there is no color change observed in water.

4.Ficus bengalensis (Nyagrodha twaka churna) This is banyan tree bark. A decoction of bark is to be prepared and consumed twice daily in a dose of 40 to 80ml. The decoction is prepared by taking around 25-50gms of bark to which 4 cups of water are to be added. It is heated to make one cup, which has to be consumed.

Shilajeet Popularly known as Rock salt, various reputed companies have Granular or powdered form of Shilajeet available. Though not very useful in reducing the blood sugar it is an excellent remedy to for loss of libido in males and in case of generalized weakness.

C. Tamal (Tejpatra) This is very commonly used as a spice in preparing food products. A diabetic patient may make a point to add the leaves of this plant in his food. Also the powder of leaves may be consumed.

Fenugreek seeds (Methi churna) Seeds of Methi have to be soaked in warm water overnight and chewed early in the morning with warm water. One may take powder of these seeds with warm water twice daily. Methi powder may be added to the wheat flour to prepare chapattis.

Momordica chirantia Karvellaka (Karella) Juice of Karela should be taken early in the morning in a quantity of 20 ml. The dried whole fruit powder can also be consumed in the dose of ½ to 1 teaspoon twice daily.

Embelica officinalis (Amala) When fresh Amla are available one may take Amla juice 20 ml daily or otherwise powder of Amla fruits may be taken twice daily.

Curcuma longa (Haridra) Haldi powder along with Amla juice is a very good combination in patients of Diabetes. It is especially useful in prevention as well as treatment of patients of Diabetic eye disease. Haldi can be put in milk as well.

Kirat tikata (Chirayata) A decoction of this plant is to be taken daily early morning. It is a very popular remedy used in all parts of the country for various skin disorders and hence forms a perfect remedy for skin infections in Diabetics .

An ayurvedic physician may advise adjuvant ayurvedic drugs. Not only do these help in lowering the blood sugar but also prevent the long-term complications of diabetes. We shall name some of these combinations/preparations:

Chandraprabha vati: In a dose of 500 mg twice or thrice daily. This is specially used in patients having Diabetes with Urinary tract infection or in females having leucorrhoea. This can be used along with Gorshuradi guggul in the same dose.

Trivang Bhasma: This is a combination of three bhasmas namely Naga, Vanga and Yashaha Bhasma. It is to be taken in a dose of 125mg twice daily available in the form of powder. It is very useful in conditions where there is excessive urination, Male sexual problems as well as to treat generalized weakness.

Dhatri Nisha: A combination of Haldi powder and Amla Rasa and has to be taken early morning and is especially useful in eye condition.

Vasant Kusumakar Rasa: A very useful tonic for diabetics especially useful in the stage of complications it has to be consumed in a dose of 125 mg twice daily. Along with having a general tonic effect it also helps in Diabetic eye condition and in preventing various conditions developing due to Nerve weakness.

Arogyavardhini

Mamajjaka Ghana vati

Jambvasava

Pathyakshadhatryadi kashaya

Panchanimba churna

Along with regular use of vijaysar, following herbs can also be used depending upon symptoms

1) Diabetes with Arthritis: Yograj guggul, freshly prepared decoction of Dasamoola, Rasna saptak, a paste of sunthi or Dasang lepa may be applied on the affected joint.

2) Diabetes with constipation: Powders like Gandharva haritaki, Isabgool, Panchaskar, Hingvastak can be used to relieve constipation.

3)Diabetes with burning sensation in the soles and palms: this can be well managed with Mangista Ghana vati, chandrakala rasa, Chandraprabha vati, pravaal pisti, Guduchi satva etc

4) Diabetes with cough: Diabetic patient suffering of chronic cough may given powders of Yasti madhu, Kantakari, Vasa, Shati etc. Ayurvedic cough syrups available in the market are not safe to be taken by a diabetic patients

5)Diabetes with excessive thirst: Excessive thirst may be managed with the use of cold infusions (heema) of Dahayanak, usheera, Chandan etc. Praval, Guduchi, may also be used.

6)Diabetes with excessive urination: excessive urination can be treated with the use of Trivang bhasma, jasad bhasma, etc

7)Generalised weakness and fatigue are the usual symptoms that can be treated with the use of herbs like shatavari, Ashvagandha, Bala Yastimadhu. Complications like tapyadi loha, Vasant kusumakar rasa are also very effective

8)Impotence is a very distressing symptom of a diabetic patient. By assessing the age of the patient they may be advised Ashwagandha, Kaucha beeja, musali etc.

Ayurveda recommends many simple home remedies to keep diabetes under control. Incorporating one or two of these remedies into your daily diet plan can help you prevent or at the least manage your blood glucose levels.

Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder + 1 teaspoon of amla powder + half a tablespoon of methi seeds powder in half a glass of water and take daily in the morning on an empty stomach.

Mix honey with barley that is soaked overnight in Triphala decoction (available at Ayurveda stores) and have it several times during the day.

Juice of bitter melon or gourd can test the toughest amongst us. But when taken on an empty stomach it works wonders at balancing our blood sugar level.

Grind and mix 100gms of fenugreek (methi) seeds, 50gms of turmeric and some white pepper. Take one teaspoon of this powder with a glass of milk twice daily.

Soak one teaspoon of fenugreek overnight in water and drink it with water or milk in the morning.

A tablespoon of the juice of the Indian gooseberry mixed with a cup of fresh bitter gourd juice is said to enable the pancreas to secrete insulin, if it is taken daily for two months.

Drink a glass of water with 10 tulsi leaves, 10 belpatras and fenugreek leaves early in the morning on an empty stomach.

Yoga in Diabetes

Effectiveness of Yoga at preventing and treating diabetes is due to its emphasis of a healthy diet and lifestyle as well as its ability to balance the endocrine system, massage and tone the abdominal organs, stimulate the nervous and circulatory systems, and reduce stress. Pranayama or breathing exercises offer still greater hope.

Stress has been shown to play an important role in diabetes by elevating blood glucose levels and increasing the odds of developing certain complications, such as heart disease, stroke and infections. And having a chronic disease that requires major lifestyle changes and constant monitoring can be very stressful in itself. Research now shows that chronically elevated levels of cortisol (hormone produced by the stress response) can lead to blood sugar problems, insulin resistance, and diabetes. Yoga and meditation are the two best practices to reduce stress and yoga has been shown to dramatically lower cortisol levels in the body.

All steps of Ashtanga Yoga, viz., Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharna, Dhyana and Samadhi, are important and should be adhered to in the same order. In health or disease, it’s always better to know and choose yoga postures and pranayama exercises according to the prakriti and vikriti of the person.

In general, exercise is a highly effective part of diabetes treatment because it increases insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar. Many studies have reported the beneficial effect of the practice of yoga on diabetes, confirming that the practice of postures can stimulate the insulin producing cells in the pancreas. Yoga has also been proven helpful for weight management, blood sugar control, as well as lowering of the dosage of diabetic medications.

Yoga Postures

Forward bends, twists and prone (belly down) poses all compress the abdomen to stimulate the pancreas, with prone poses being the most effective. Use forward bends and calming poses to reduce stress. In addition to acting on koshas and balancing chakras, yoga postures improve lymphatic circulation and hence body immunity. Yogic postures done with focus on breath, bandha, drishti and proper alignment are meditative and help in detoxification. Two reasons that yoga is particularly great for diabetes is that it:

Practice Pranayama to increase circulation of blood, oxygen and prana to facilitate healing and for stress reduction. Ashwin, the breath, is said to be the physician of gods. According to Vedas, it heals all maladies, with a name or without it. Recent years have witnessed a rise in interest in the healing powers of pranayama and myriad of studies have proven its positive effects on health. Pranayama has immense healing potential, and in expert hands, can work wonders. Pranayama is a great way to boost immunity. It is the bridge between the physical body and spiritual body and optimizes the flow of Prana. In general, some exercises like:

Bhastrika

Ujjayi

Kapal Bhati

Anulom Vilom

Moorchha

Vibhag Pranayama

Mahat Pranayama

Sama Vritti Pranayama

Visham Vritti Pranayama etc.

have been shown to help in diabetes. Please check the details of some breathing exercises here.

To offer the advantages of this yogic science of breathing, SAVY launched Dr Sahdev’s ‘Breathe and Heal’ Program ,a stepped program based on some very safe and healing breathing exercises in 2012.

Meditation

Meditation reduces stress, calms the mind and activates the body’s natural healing abilities. You can use one of the following by itself and/or at the beginning and end of yoga practice:

Yoga Meditation,

Third Eye Meditation

Prana Healing Meditation

Yoga Nutrition

Diabetes has been linked to the western lifestyle, as it is rarely seen in cultures that consume a natural non-processed, non-refined diet. Because of the standard Western diet that is high in sugar and dead carbohydrates that turn to sugar, the pancreas becomes exhausted and the cells are overworked. A yogic diet that is high in fiber, whole grains, legumes and vegetables is recommended to lose excess weight and stabilize blood sugar levels. With the synergetic combination of yoga, regular aerobic exercise and healthy diet diabetes can be controlled and quiet often reduced or even cured.

Some studies on raw vegetarian diet claim miraculous results.

Marma Therapy

Marmas can also be called minor chakras; they are vital points in the body through which life energy flows. There are 108 marmas and they are classified into different groups. Some marmas are very important in diabetes, and if massaged with proper pressure/technique, order, oil, duration etc., can help a lot in prevention as well as relief. Some points for diabetes are :

Indrabasti

Hridaya marma

Tala Hridaya

Urvi Marma

Stanarohita Marma

Guda Marma

Activation of these and other important points by massage with specific herbal oils, medicated ghrita in a gentle manner with discrete motion is highly beneficial. All this must be undertaken under the strict supervision of a well-trained expert with actual experience.

Ayurvedic/ Yogic massage based on Marma Therapy is quite beneficial. This is done not only as a means to relieve stress but also for deeper therapeutic reasons. It assists in hormonal balance. Most masseurs are not trained in such specialized massage, so, finding a knowledgeable expert becomes very important.

Mudra Vigyan and Kriya Vigyan

Various hand postures (hasta mudras) are said to have very beneficial effect in health and disease.

There are five hand mudras which are quite effective in diabetes. Practice for 45 minutes daily at a stretch or three times of 15 minutes each, depending on your comfort level.

1. Surya Mudra

‘Surya’ is a Sanskrit word that means ‘Sun’. Surya mudra is known to increase the fire within the human body that in turn ensures an optimised metabolic rate. Diabetics, in general, have poor metabolic rates which results in increased sugar levels and weight gain. Regular practice of this mudra will help boost metabolic rates, thus ensuring loss of weight and lowering of sugar levels. The mudra also helps easing indigestion and associated problems.

Method:

Sit or stand straight.

Stretch your hands to your front.

Bend your ring finger so that it touches the root of thumb.

Keep the other fingers spread out, apart from each other.

2. Pran Mudra

Known as the Mudra of Life, it helps in improving the vital force of life and activates your Mooladhara Chakra or root chakra. Thus, it empowers you wholly within. The mudra, when practiced without fail, helps in detoxifying your body. Practicing this mudra alongside Apan Mudra has been proven to offer relief to those suffering from diabetes.

Method:

Sit down in a relaxed position, preferably, Padmasana (Lotus pose), with your eyes closed. Those who are uncomfortable in this position can opt for performing the mudra in Tadasana (Mountain Pose).

Focus on your breathing.

Keep your hands on your sides.

Bend your little finger and ring finger to touch the thumb.

Keep the index finger and middle finger straight.

Make sure that you perform this mudra with both the hands.

3. Apan Mudra

The mudra, also called the mudra of purification, is one of the easiest yoga mudras. It aids in striking a better balance between the elements within the human body. Thus, it ensures that the unwanted toxins are flushed out properly from your body. This mudra results in frequent urination for eliminating the wastes, thus lowering the blood sugar levels.

Method:

Sit in Padmasana or Vajrasana. Those who have knee problems can opt for standing in Tadasana.

Keep your hands stretched to your front.

Bend your thumb, middle finger, and ring finger in such a way that their tips come together.

Keep the little finger and index finger straight.

Make sure that you perform this mudra with both the hands. Combine this mudra with Vayu mudra and practice regularly for preventing and curing diabetes.

4. Gyan Mudra

Also known as Chin Mudra, it can be practiced by the diabetics to enjoy deep relaxation. It helps in relaxing the body and eliminating stress and other mind-related issues.

Method: The mudra, in general, is practiced alongside meditation poses.

Choose a sitting position, such as Padmasana, Vajrasana or Sukhasana, depending on your ease of doing so. You can even choose Tadasana, if you can concentrate without any trouble. Those who find it difficult to follow any of the yoga asanas can opt for sitting relaxingly on a chair. Keep your eyes closed.

Keep your back straight; head and chest should be held high. Focus on your breathing.

Keep your palms on your knees. Palms should face upwards.

Bend the index finger to touch the thumb’s tip, while the rest of the fingers are kept straight.

Performing this Mudra while chanting will yield more effective outcomes.

5. Linga Mudra

Lingam, in Sanskrit, means phallus – the male reproductive organ. This mudra is helpful for those who are suffering from diabetes. It helps in activating the fire element within the human body, thus generating intense heat. This, in turn, causes an increase in metabolic levels. The higher the metabolic levels, the more the chances of a person losing weight. This, automatically, lowers blood sugar levels, offering relief from diabetes.

Method:

Sit down in Padmasana, Vajrasana or Sukhasana or choose to stand in Tadasana.

Clasp your hands stretched in front of the body while keeping the fingers intertwined.

The thumb of your left hand should point upward. Circle it with the right thumb and right index finger.

Inhale and exhale normally and maintain the position for 15 minutes.

Nabho Mudra – Breathe and Heal

Also, Nabho mudra and Khechari mudra, when done properly along with certain Pranayamas, are said to have a curative effective.

Panchakarma requires strict supervision by an expert. Shatkarma is a set of six detoxifying procedures, viz., Neti, Dhauti, Nyauli, Basti, Kapal Bhati, Tratak, which are said to remove the toxins from the body and thus help the body recover from any ailment.

NADA YOGA AND MANTRAS

All disorders in Ayurveda have been correlated to karmic influences. Hence chanting Mantras with appropriate gestures is very helpful. The selection of Mantras and time to chant depends on the natal chart and its interpretation.

Mantras influence the vibratory functions of cells and help them work in specific synchronization with the brain. Over a period of time it helps to cleanse the body of toxins. These therapies must be followed with strict guidelines of diet and lifestyle.

VEDIC ASTROLOGY AND GEMSTONES

Gemstone therapy and Vedic astrology have been shown to be useful in diabetes.According to Astrology, planetary Combinations which causes Diabetes are:

Two or Three Malefic Planets if posited in Watery Signs

Two or Three Malefic Planets posited in the 6th House.

Two of Three Malefic Planets posited in Libra or in 7th house

Moon afflicted by Sun or Mars in Watery Signs

Venus afflicted by Sun or Mars in Watery Signs

If the 6th lord is posited in 8th or vice versa

Astrologically, Diabetes can be cured by wearing two gems:

Red coral, and

Yellow sapphire.

There are certain rules for wearing the stone:

1. The Gemstones shall be worn in silver.
2. Gemstones shall be energized by purification.
3. The Gemtones shall be worn in right hand.
4. Gemstones can be worn in a single pendant where Yellow Sapphire shall be fitted on the right hand side and Red Coral on the left hand side.

At SAVY we offer Yoga Therapyfor Diabetes Mellitus and other ailments.

Learn all that directly under expert guidance of one of the most qualified faculty in the world! Your Yoga Teacher – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500 D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 37,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India with almost three decades of experience in Medicine, he utilizes Yoga as a complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients and for easing symptoms associated with disease. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Note : Yoga Therapy is best administered in an individualized manner though some generalized guidelines have been provided for all.

You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new therapy or exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises or undertaking any therapy program.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

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Beat the Beast

SAVY International Inc./ SAVY Yoga Studio has started a novel series Beat the Beast – a series of 10-day workshops, each one targeted at different major diseases as well as positive health. Under this series, we offer workshops on some very useful Yoga routines including yoga postures, breathing exercises, marma therapy, nada yoga, shithilakaran, meditation techniques, mudras, kriyas, and a lot more – all that which is specifically effective for the said health issue and has a proven role in the care of that particular state. Participants will be required to attend 90-minute classes for the specified 10 days.

Yoga for Breast Cancer

Claiming Your Breast Health Back

Beat the Beast series, based on Yoga, Pranayama, Nada, Marmas, Meditation and more, offers immense healing potential for the body, mind and spirit.

Breast cancer is a complex disease that will affect 1 in 8 (1 in 9, in Canada) women during their lifetime. Breast cancer continues to be the most common cancer diagnosis in women in Canada over the age of 20 and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Canadian women, after lung cancer. However, fewer women in Canada are dying from breast cancer today than in the past. In addition, there are minor diseases of breasts too which this workshop intends to address.

Yoga is not just physical stretching, but it is a whole science of life!

Yoga and Ayurveda offer many ways of helping in diseases.

SAVY offers programs based on Yoga, Marma, Kriyas, Mudras, Pranayama (effective breathing techniques) and other healing elements of Yoga. Validated by the stringent test of time and the millions who tried them in the past, and backed and refined by Dr Sahdev’s almost three decades of superlative clinical experience at the fore-front of main-stream Medicine, inspired by his work in Surgical Oncology, Neurosurgery and other Super Specialitiesat premier medical institutes in India, his study and work in other Alternative modalities and Yoga, and an input of thousands of hours of educated and qualified clinical research and its deep analysis in India, these breathing and other techniques havebeen proved to actually deliver!

Right from the day of SAVY‘s inception, we’ve put benefits of all the advanced and superlative skills and knowledge on offer for the benefit of humanity under our Yoga Therapy programs, specifically including:

We offer very well-structured, effective, advanced and result-oriented programs for Cancer care as well as other diseases. These are the methods which work at cellular level and root out any insufficiency. As studies are proving, Yoga has a definite role to play in breast cancer management too.

Every year many people suffer from ill effects and even physical incapacity, fatigue, time off work or school with a poor quality of life, ongoing financial expenses and a deteriorating condition. Other than loss of income to family members, there are costs incurred by women with breast cancer and their families. Informal costs, such as the family labor for patient care and non-reimbursed out-of-pocket expenditures to care for the patient with breast cancer, need to be considered. Family care costs need to be considered along with the formal and direct reimbursable medical costs as an essential component of breast cancer care cost.

What do I learn in a Yoga for Breast Cancer Workshop?

You will be practicing a capsule of extremely useful exercises, physical as well as mental, in a time-bound manner. This program sets you on a course to perfection in body, mind and spirit! This could truly be a LIFE TRANSFORMING experience for you. Whether you are brand new to yoga or are a seasoned yoga practitioner, you will find this yoga workshop a truly rewarding experience physically, emotionally, medically, socially and spiritually. You will learn, in a nutshell, about common breast diseases, breast cancer, their symptoms, their pathogenesis according to Modern Medicine and the Yoga/ Ayurveda perspective. You’ll also be given an overview of all major modalities of treatment available. You’ll be given an overview of the role of yoga in these diseases. Based on DSBH Therapy and Dr. Sahdev’s clinical work in India spanning over three decades, we’ll introduce you to a system of breathing retraining and routine of yogic exercises. This system has:

Scientific basis – based on the standard principles of yoga and breathing, guidelines of the science of breathing – Pranayama and supported by research

Natural – it’s all natural and no supplements, vitamins, pills are advised

Drug-free – categorically no drugs are involved in any form

Potent – as medical research into their effectivity has shown so far, these methods are quite effective and potent, and in good hands and with proper guidance, success rate is quite predictable

Beat the Beast – Yoga for Breast Cancer workshop sets you on a course to perfection in body, mind and spirit! As the latest studies suggest, it can be useful for prevention as well as during and after treatment.

Here are some of the benefits of attending this program:

This program sets you on a course to perfection. You learn healthy habits which you can continue to follow.

At the completion of the program, develop an on-going daily practice of your own.

PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!

The benefits of a regular practice cannot be over-emphasised!

Natural weight management.

Develop a body that is more flexible, healthier and stronger.

Learn how to manage stress effectively.

Reduce chronic pain.

Develop the habit of waking up early, thus leaving much more of the day for yourself.

Morning yoga gives you abundant energy and vitality for the rest of the day.

Develop a strong will-power.

Detoxify and cleanse your body.

Develop healthier eating habits.

There are innumerable other benefits beyond this list.

Also, this workshop will give you an overview of common breast diseases, breast cancer, their symptoms, their pathogenesis according to Modern Medicine and the Yoga/ Ayurveda perspective. It introduces you to yoga and breathing re-training which is completely natural, safe, potent, effective and totally drug-free. You receive advice on management. If you are suffering from Insomnia, Panic Attacks or Sleep Apnoea the appropriate advice will be applicable to improve these specific conditions too. The Workshop teaches you strategies which help you to optimize health. The aim is to learn yoga routine to help you lead a normal healthy life again.

You’ll get guidance and aid to continue doing that after attending workshop. You can also opt for follow-up plans. All this helps you deal with the problem in a more systematic and positive way.

Expected Outcome

At cellular level, this routine will put on a road to recovery from disease and senescence

The workshop is most useful for those people who are prepared to take time and responsibility to control their problems. The workshop will be useful to anybody who can follow instructions, do breathing exercises and wants to learn more about his/ her problems and is open to newer medically-documented solutions. It is useful for people with all types and degrees of severity of stress and anxiety as well as people with other disorders such as insomnia, snoring, sleep apnoea and panic attacks. It is also effective in reducing chronic fatigue. It works for those who are and remain willing and motivated to act upon the advice given in the workshop.

What does Beat the Beast workshop entail?

Beat the Beast workshop consists of 90-minute practice on each day, for 10 week – days. Clients learn yoga and breathing exercises. These exercises are known and proven to be effective and help in recovery.

It’s vital to learn correct and proper techniques for yoga and breathing exercises. Dr. Jitender K Sahdev, President at SAVY International Inc. and creator of Yoga and Pranayama programs at SAVY, has been working in India as a Surgeon for the last almost three decades, is one of the most qualified and experienced Yoga experts in the world with an E-RYT 500 from Yoga Alliance, USA, is a Yoga Therapist, and has M.D., Ph.D. and D.Sc. degrees in Alternative Medicine. He has worked in Neurosurgery, Surgical Oncology, Critical Care, and many other Super Specialties in India. The programs are a result of a lifetime of the most exhaustive experience in Medicine, Alternative Medicine and Yoga. SAVY International Inc. is an RYS 200 and RYS 300 yoga school. Our registered yoga teachers have the highest ranks as yoga teachers, are Yoga Therapists and are trained and experienced DSBH Educators as well. We train yoga teachers, yoga therapists, Marma Therapists, DSBH Educators etc.

The workshop gives you a lot of information which is amazing in practical application. It consists of procedures and breathing exercises which are considered very useful and most are of proven value. We strive to bring the most comprehensive knowledge and proven application techniques to you.

4.Individualized approach

Because of small group size, you get individual attention and all your questions are answered and concerns addressed.

5.Competitive Cost

We offer the best value for money services. Free pre-workshop consultation, free Question-Answer sessions after workshop and training material for workshop. Under one of the most qualified faculty in the world, with one of the best programs, our costs are most competitive.

6.We Listen

Your feedback is a very important to us. We understand psychological and emotional aspects of dealing with a chronic health condition, and we use a persistent, but non-stressful, approach. Your co-operation is of paramount importance.

7.Best Support in Industry

We believe in a long and congenial Client – Practitioner relationship. All messages, emails and enquiries are answered promptly.

8.Commitment

We are result-oriented and committed to work, given the willingness and commitment on your part too.

9.We welcome a dialog with your Health-Care Provider

We understand that searching for the best available options is a goal of any chronic health condition management. Information about our programs and DSBH therapy is available on our website for your health care provider.

10.We are flexible

We understand the demands of modern life, costs in health and disease and respect your time. We’ll try our best to be flexible and accommodate your schedule.

An Overview of what you learn in Beat the Beast Workshop

This programme will give you a better understanding, a sense of control and an improved quality of life right from Day 1. Practised regularly, with commitment, what you learn here will produce improvements in every area of life.

Day 1

filling up of registration and waiver form

introduction to breast diseases and breast cancer

understanding the problems

introduction to disease monitoring

introduction to some exercises

Day 2 – Day 7

introduction to and practice of fuller routines of yoga postures and breathing exercises, in a graded manner

the importance of, and how to maintain 24 hour nasal breathing, even during sleep

Introduction to basic exercises in DSBH Therapy- Module 1, and the concept of Breath Holding Time (BHT)

practice of full routines of yoga postures, breathing exercises and other elements of yoga

DSBH Therapy and the concept of Breath Holding Time (BHT) in more detail

practise of vital breathing and mind/body relaxation techniques

Question- Answer Session

Feedback – we check your results to make sure you are practising correctly.

Schedule

The program will consist of a group-based practice led by a knowledgeable and experienced instructor. Here are the details:

Dates:

Please confirm final dates with the studio at the time of registration.

Time: 90-Minute Class On week Days: 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM

Where: SAVY International South London Yoga Studio at 163 Concord Road London ON N6G 3H9

Formats: Two-week Format

Commitment:

A firm commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency). To underline the importance of this, you are required to sign a form stating the same at the beginning of the program. Missed classes will not be compensated in any way.

At the end of the program, continue the same practice at home or sign-up for other relevant programs to make it a life-long habit.

Cost: Total cost is $999 for 10-day workshop.

Components of Program:

Asana (physical postures/stretching)

Yoga Nidra/ Shithilikaran (relaxation)

Pranayama (breathing techniques)

Mudras and Kriyas

Meditation

Self Marma Massage of important Marma Bindus

Nada

Aum Chanting

Energy Healing

Chakra and Kundalini Awakening Exercises

General Ayurvedic Detox Diet advice

Pearls of Ancient Wisdom

Daily Practice will include:

Asana: We will practice a variety of relevant asanas (physical postures) during this period. Even though we shall maintain the same basic pattern, each day we might either introduce a new pose or practice variations of different poses. The asana practice will improve strength, flexibility, endurance and balance in different parts of the body. Also, asanas act on different Marma points and hence on Chakras.

Yoga Nidra/ Shithlikaran: Yoga Nidra/ Shithilikaran (deep relaxation) helps not only relax the body but also helps calm the nerves, the mind and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

Meditation: We shall practice a few simple but very effective meditation techniques.

Self-Marma Massage: Marma bindus are the energy points which connect to the chakras through nadis. Self-massage of various important marmas helps open up energy channels and balance chakras.

Nada: Nada (Indian Classical Music) notes have the same effect as the Marma bindu massage and help to open up and balance various chakras. We’ll be practising various notes and may even practice some compositions based on various ragas on different occasions.

AUM Chanting: AUM is the primordial sound and AUM chanting has a healing effect on all our sheaths. We’ll be investing some of our time in it daily.

Energy Healing: Various exercises are conducive to very positive energy fields around us while practicing in a group. We’ll be doing these exercises on different occasions.

Chakra and Kudalini Awakening Exercises: Various procedures, chants, exercises which help balance chakras and so are conducive to kundalini awakening in the long run will also be done.

Ayurvedic/ Yoga Dietary Advice: Importance of diet on the basis of body type, and its role in healing will also be highlighted. You will be given a general advice on diet throughout the program.

Yoga philosophy: Understanding of concepts of yoga philosophy will be shared while practicing asana, pranayama and meditation so we can develop a deeper understanding of the yoga practice as well as learn more.

As experts, we understand the importance of full-fledged training program, follow-up, support and encouragement on the road to recovery. We are committed to providing you as much help as you need to achieve your personal health goals.

You are encouraged to register for more advanced programs and go further on the road to recovery.

We also recommend making use of other specialized services available at SAVY Studio.

In addition to committing to the yoga practice as outlined above, we would strongly urge you to commit to the following for the duration of the program:

Also, to help achieve your goals, we strongly recommend availing the following services at SAVY Studio:

Yoga Therapy Consultation

DSBH Therapy

Yoga Nutrition Programs

Marma Therapy

Mantra Consultation

Vedic Astrology Consultation

Ayurvedic Supplements Consultation

How To Join the Program

Decide about joining the program. You can come for a 15-minute Pre-Workshop consultation.

Check with us, or online if the space is available for the batch.

Make your payment on telephone or in person at the Yoga Studio.

Your spot will be reserved after receiving full payment.

*HST is charged extra on all payments.

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises.

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p style=”text-align: justify;”>The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

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Another Study Establishes Role of Yoga in Breast Cancer

For thousands of years, Yogis have known how to control body processes and functions through yoga. Regular yoga practice is said to retard the process of aging and improve quality of life. Even in modern times, many of the well-known exponents of yoga are known to lead healthy lives well into their nineties.

Recent years have seen an increased interest in role yoga can play in health as well disease. With each passing day, more and more studies are putting a stamp of authenticity on what yogis have been claiming for a long time. Yoga Therapy is a new upcoming modality with a lot of substance and potential to it. Yoga is capable of helping with prevention as well as in challenging the unhindered march of the beast of disease.

Very recently, research team at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (TBCC) in Alberta and the University of Calgary Department of Oncology has published a study that establishes yoga has significant potential and should be further explored as a beneficial physical activity option for cancer survivors. The study found that telomeres, which are protein complexes at the end of chromosomes, maintain their length in breast cancer survivors who have psychological intervention, while telomeres shortened in women who were not involved in support groups. Shortened telomeres are associated with diseases, while longer ones are thought to help protect the body. In the study, in the Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery group, the women attended a 90-minute group session about meditation and Hatha yoga for eight weeks. They were also told to meditate and do yoga at home daily. In the Supportive Expressive Therapy group, the women met for 12 weeks for 90 minutes to talk about their concerns and feelings. It allowed them to express their emotions, rather than stifle them. Participants randomly placed in the control group attended one, six-hour stress management seminar, but did not experience any other interventions. It was seen that the women in both of the active groups where they learned meditation or yoga, or did the support groups, they all maintained their telomere lengths, so they were basically the same. But, the women in the control group who had no intervention — their telomeres became shorter..

Telomeres, Cancer and Aging

There has been a small group of scientists, gerontologists, studying the reasons we age and fall sick, for many years – how, and can we, slow down or control the process. More and more researchers are joining the field. Telomeres are protective pieces of DNA material at the ends of every chromosome in every cell in the body. Telomeres, like protective caps at the end of our shoelaces, function to protect our genome integrity and preserve cell function. As we age our telomeres shorten. Scientific studies have shown that short telomeres are associated with age related decline and dysfunction. Evidence clearly shows that people with long telomeres age healthier and live longer.

A telomere is a region of repetitive DNA at the end of a chromosome, which protects the end of the chromosome from deterioration. A telomere is a repeating DNA sequence (for example, TTAGGG) at the end of the body’s chromosomes. The telomere can reach a length of 15,000 base pairs. Telomeres function by preventing chromosomes from losing base pair sequences at their ends. They also stop chromosomes from fusing to each other. However, each time a cell divides, some of the telomere is lost (usually 25-200 base pairs per division). Telomeres protect a cell’s chromosomes from fusing with each other or rearranging—abnormalities which can lead to cancer—and so cells are normally destroyed when their telomeres are consumed. Most cancers are the result of “immortal” cells which have ways of evading this programmed destruction. Telomeres have been compared with the plastic tips on shoelaces, because they keep chromosome ends from fraying and sticking to each other, which would destroy or scramble an organism’s genetic information. When the telomere becomes too short, the chromosome reaches a “critical length” and can no longer replicate. This means that a cell becomes “old” and dies by a process called apoptosis.

Telomere activity is controlled by two mechanisms: erosion and addition. Erosion, as mentioned, occurs each time a cell divides. Addition is determined by the activity of telomerase.

Telomerase, also called telomere terminal transferase, is an enzyme made of protein and RNA subunits that elongates chromosomes by adding TTAGGG sequences to the end of existing chromosomes. Telomerase is found in fetal tissues, adult germ cells, and also tumor cells. Telomerase activity is regulated during development and has a very low, almost undetectable activity in somatic (body) cells. Because these somatic cells do not regularly use telomerase, they age. The result of aging cells is an aging body. If telomerase is activated in a cell, the cell will continue to grow and divide. This “immortal cell” theory is important in two areas of research: aging and cancer.

Cellular aging, or senescence, is the process by which a cell becomes old and dies. It is due to the shortening of chromosomal telomeres to the point that the chromosome reaches a critical length. Cellular aging is analogous to a wind up clock. If the clock stays wound, a cell becomes immortal and constantly produces new cells. If the clock winds down, the cell stops producing new cells and dies. Our cells are constantly aging. Being able to make the body’s cells live forever certainly creates some exciting possibilities.

Elizabeth Blackburn, Carol Greider, and Jack Szostak were awarded the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for the discovery of how chromosomes are protected by telomeres and the enzyme telomerase.

Yoga in Cancer

At SAVY, we have always maintained that Yoga has a big role to play in all diseases, including cancer. Modern Science has only started discovering the wonders that can be achieved with Yoga and Pranayama, the science of breathing exercises, very recently. Some of the recent studies have concluded:

Brain Growth: According to a Harvard study, when controlled breathing is used during meditation, it can actually increase the size of the brain. Meditation that involves focusing one’s attention on the breath has the capacity to increase cortical thickness. Please click at the link to read about some major studies done on the effect of meditation on brain. Another paper mentions the role of meditation in improving the quality of life.

Lower Stress: Shallow breathing is a sign of stress and ‘fight or flight’ sign of the body. Sitting quietly and focussing on your breathing helps your body achieve a state of calm, shifting from functioning from sympathetic nervous system ( characterized by drive, fight, flight and ambition) to the parasympatheticnervous system (relax and receive).

Get rid of Negative Emotions: We feel short of breath during times of panic or stress. This is the body’s natural reaction to a perceived threat. Focusing on breathing can help to alleviate anxiety, symptoms of depression, and other negative emotions. Last year, Australian researchers found that deep breathing 30 minutes before a performance effectively reduced musicians’ performance anxiety.

Reduce Examination Phobia: A 2007 study published in the journal ‘Teaching and Learning in Medicine’ found that students who practiced deep-breathing meditation before an exam reported perceiving less anxiety, self-doubt and concentration loss than the students who did not practice deep breathing .

Lower Blood Pressure: Taking slow, deep breaths for just a few minutes a day could help lower your blood pressure, according to Dr. David Anderson of the National Institutes of Health. While researchers have observed that slow, deep breaths can help to relax and temporarily dilate blood vessels, they don’t yet know precisely why deep breathing has the capacity to cause a lasting drop in blood pressure.

Gene Expression: A recent study found that mind-body practices like yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can trigger the body’s “relaxation response,” a physiological state of deep relaxation that alters the way it responds to stress. This state can counter the negative effects of stress for people with health conditions like anxiety and hypertension, by actually altering the expression of genes in the immune system.

Cellular Aging: A pilot study published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that brief daily meditation practices by family dementia caregivers can lead to improved mental and cognitive functioning and lower levels of depressive symptoms. This improvement is accompanied by an increase in telomerase activity suggesting improvement in stress-induced cellular aging.

There is also evidence for role of yoga breathing in asthma and more evidence is accumulating. This recent study is another milestone in establishing the role of Yoga in health and disease.

SAVY’s Crusade Against Diseases

Yoga and Ayurveda offer many ways of helping cancer patients. SAVY offers programs based on Yoga and effective breathing techniques, validated by the stringent test of time and the millions who tried them, and backed and refined by Dr Sahdev’s almost three decades of superlative clinical experience at the fore-front of main-stream Medicine, inspired by his work in Surgical Oncology, Neurosurgery and other Super Specialitiesat premier medical institutes in India, his study and work in other Alternative modalities and Yoga, and an input of thousands of hours of educated and qualified clinical research and its deep analysis in India, these breathing and other techniques havebeen proved to actually deliver!

Right from the day of SAVY‘s inception, we’ve put benefits of all the advanced and superlative skills and knowledge on offer for the benefit of humanity under our Yoga Therapy programs, specifically including:

We offer very well-structured, effective, advanced and result-oriented programs for Cancer care as well as other diseases.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Do Yoga regularly. Yoga has been shown to go a long way in boosting immunity. Join our targeted, very well-structured programs to help you achieve that end.

Learn breathing exercises from a knowledgeable teacher and practice them regularly. Pranayama has been shown to have a lot of healing effect. We offer training in Pranayama in Dr Sahdev’s ‘Breathe and Heal’ Program. Some of the breathing exercises for cancer are given here.

Practice breast self-massage as well as use professional help. Marma massages, done properly, help with lymphatic drainage and open up blockages in energy channels.

Exercise regularly using movements that involve the shoulders and build torso and upper arm strength.

Wear comfortable, natural fiber (i.e. cotton) underwear. Bras that have under wires or that are strapless should not be used as they will make the breasts sag and allow toxins to accumulate in breast tissue.

Use aluminium-free deodorant. Empirical studies show that aluminum can enter the blood and lymph systems through the skin and severely challenge the immune system.

Choose to eat organic foods and use environmentally friendly cleaning products. Many synthetic chemicals (including what is found in fertilizers, pesticides. germicides) mimic hormones and cause physical and emotional havoc.

Use supplements such as vitamins E, C, and B-complex as well as minerals. Eat mineral-rich sea vegetables or take mineral supplements particularly when your stress level is high.

Use hormone-free contraception. Avoid long-term use of the pill and synthetic hormone therapies when possible.

Learn all that directly under expert guidance of one of the most qualified faculty in the world! Your Yoga Teacher – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc. (Alternative Medicine), Ph.D. (Alternative Medicine),MD (Alternative Medicine), M.B.,B.S., Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, the most qualified and experienced Yoga Therapist and Yoga Teacher in London ON and Canada. A Surgeon by profession from India, he started his Surgical career in a Cancer Hospital in India and in his Surgical career over almost next three decades, performed thousands of breast cancer and other surgeries. He utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Sign up today and live life to your full potential.

Please check the dates for ‘Yoga in Breast Cancer’ workshop with the studio.

We provide a FREE 30- minute Consultation to dispel your doubts and answer your queries. Please fill up the form below and send to fix up your FREE Consultation.

Call or email for any inquiries.

Dr Jitender K Sahdev

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new therapy or exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises or undertaking any therapy program.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

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SAVY’s London Yoga Teacher Training – Most Affordable

SAVY International Inc. is a registered RYS 200 and RYS 300 Yoga Alliance Teacher Training School and a Private Educational Institution certified with the Federal Government of Canada. RYT 200 and RYT 500 Teacher training students will receive an official tuition fee receipt and an official education and textbook credit for income tax purposes.

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Choose Your Yoga Teacher Training Wisely!

Recent years have seen an exponential upsurge of interest in Yoga. Just in USA, more than 36 million people do Yoga every day! According to some estimates, almost 2 billion people in the world do yoga every day! The demand for well-trained Yoga teachers has also increased. Traditionally in India, the training of Yoga has been handed down from generation to generation through the Guru-Shishya parampara, where the Shishya used to stay with the Guru for at least 12 years to learn the basics. But a large percentage of new teachers now coming into this field have not had the benefit of that kind of training. Yoga is a life-long passion which demands dedicated and disciplined training. Though training in advanced Yoga can still be had only through Guru-Shishya tradition, some standardized training formats acceptable in the west are available in schools being run everywhere.

With so many schools popping up overnight and so many teachers of yoga with summary trainings to choose from, zeroing in on a program which gives you a sound base to accumulate accurate knowledge has become very difficult. Do you choose from what sells? Or do you want to know and learn yoga? Do you choose a program which teaches cross-training, or do you select one which introduces you to a yoga that is too complete to need any other gimmicks? Learning something which is not accurate and having to rectify that later on can only be termed a wasteful exercise! You’ll be investing a lot of time and hard-earned money in your training, so make an informed and wise choice right at the outset!

For those Yoga Teacher Trainees with time constraints, the opportunity to study online is also available, though for registration with some leading registries, a stipulated number of contact hours is mandatory. By implementing the guidelines that follow, anyone in search of the ideal yoga certification program should be able to find one.

CREDENTIALS

School

International Yoga Federation is the largest Yoga Teacher Registry in the world. Yoga Alliance, USA is one of the largest Yoga Teacher registry in the world. Worldwide Yoga Alliance, Canada is an upcoming Yoga registry with a very clear vision and direction. There are many other registries. These registries have introduced some minimum standards where none existed before. These Yoga Registries gives registration to those completing their education only in a Registered Yoga School. Look for RYS/RSY 200 and RYS/ RSY 300 designations. Don’t be convinced that you can apply for Yoga registry on your own after you complete their program. All major registries would accept training only from Yoga Schools registered with them.

To check whether the school you are interested in is registered with Yoga Alliance or not, click here. Be sure to search by typing in the city and state. To confirm registration with Worldwide Yoga Alliance, Canada (WWYA), please click here. Don’t just type in the name of the studio or you might get bogus search results.

RYS/ RSY 200 schools can train teachers up to RYT/ RTY 200 level. RYS/ RSY 300 schools can provide further training to enable you to register as RYT/ RTY 500. Advantage of an RYS/ RSY 300 school over an RYS/ RSY 500 school would be that you can complete 500 hours training in two stages: 200 hours and 300 hours. With an RYS/ RSY 500 school, you can’t break up your training into two stages.

Generally speaking, RYS/ RSY 300 or RYS/ RSY 500 schools should have more experienced teachers. In essence, Yoga is experiential knowledge; understanding of subtleties comes only with experience. If you look back and think about your own yoga practice you can discern how different is it today compared to the first day you started it!

SAVY International Inc. is an RYS/ RSY 200 and RYS 300/ RSY 500 Yoga School, with registered branches in Canada and India.

Teachers

Transmission of knowledge is not just a detached deliverance of sermons. Not every program is a quality program. Every yoga teacher training program has a primary teacher of the training, and other assisting teachers. Check out the experience of the primary and other teachers. Sound theoretical knowledge is also essential. You want a teacher who is in the know and can make you ‘teaching-ready’.

At SAVY, Director of Teaching, Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RPYT, RCYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, M.B.,B.S., Fellow in Surgery, Fellow in Surgical Oncology, is a Yoga Teacher with over 50,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India with almost three decades of experience in Modern Medicine, he utilizes Yoga as a complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his students, and for easing symptoms of pain and tightness associated with disease in his clients. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for over four decades. He is also a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

In addition, SAVY has four more E-RYT 500 Yoga teachers, all duly registered with Yoga Alliance, USA and WWYA, Canada. You can check the credentials of our teachers here.

You – Pre-Course Experience

Yoga comes from India and its original texts are in Sanskrit/ Vedic language. All the new terms and concepts might be overwhelming for a totally green trainee. It’s good idea to start preparing for the course in advance by attending yoga classes and reading good books in Yoga to provide you with a working terminology and base. A good program should ask you to document previous experience and/ or offer some kind of preparatory pre-course/ additional training.

Program

Yoga is too vast. It offers immense possibilities. It’s important to have a good overview of all aspects of Yoga. Choose a program which introduces you to all aspects of Yoga so that you can make an informed choice later on when you become an RYT and might choose to specialize in one aspect of teaching, like Yoga for Seniors, Teens, Athletes, Children, Pranayama, Meditation, Marma Therapy, Ayurveda or Nada etc. Your basic certification training is the time when you should be introduced to the basic concepts of Yoga.

Yoga is not another exercise form! If a yoga program teaches you that, it’s misinforming you. Yoga is science of neuro-physio-endocrinology. Studies have shown that Yoga boosts neuro-transmitter levels in brain and even modulates nerve impulses in peripheral nerves. In a basic Yoga certification program, the main focus should be on understanding basics of Yoga. Yoga is very vast in content and application. As new research is establishing with each passing day, Yoga has diverse applications. Almost all traditional methods find their roots in Yoga and Ayurveda. Does the program teach Yoga, or is the program buttressed by lots of ‘throw-ins’ like cross-fit, sauna, aroma, weight training and other stuff to cover up the lack of actual knowledge and real value of the program?

At SAVY, we introduce you to the basics of Yoga instead of burdening you with redundant, unrelated knowledge. Being a man of some qualifications and quality experience, Dr Jitender K Sahdev is very well-versed with the basics of Yoga and its neuro-endocrinological base.

Curriculum

The distribution of hours in the course should be such that it covers basics of Yoga. Curriculum of a registered program should comply with a certain standardized format. Schools registered with YA, USA have to comply with YA guidelines. Make it sure before joining the course.

RYT/ RTY 200 and RYT 300/ RTY 500 courses at SAVY are registered with YA, USA and WWYA, Canada, and comply with the prescribed curriculum. Other advanced courses are there to help you delve deeper.

Avenues for Growth

Does the school you are joining offer anything beyond the basic certification? There is every chance you might get interested in pursuing your career further in Yoga. So, choose a school which provides advanced courses and training in Yoga.

SAVY trains Yoga teachers at RYT/ RTY 200 and RYT/ RTY 500 levels and beyond. In addition, we also offer advanced courses in Pranayama, Marma Therapy, Meditation, Ayurveda, Kriyas, Yoga Nutrition, and more. Our basic program prepares you for more advanced learning in Yoga. So, even sky is not the limit at SAVY!

COSTTotal cost

In the world of yoga teacher training, there are many options for schedule and format. Some are residential, some not. Some are all-in-one, some are module based.

Do your math correctly when considering module-based and residential programs . Sometimes they are designed to have a low advertised rate that doesn’t accurately reflect the actual cost of the program. Do your math before you commit.

Fair Cost

A quick web search and you’ll find a wide variety of data on this one. The cost of a yoga teacher training depends greatly on what is on offer. Some Yoga Alliance certified programs might not actually fulfill the need of minimum 200 hours. Other programs might exceed the minimum hours required.

Generally, tuition for a 200-hour yoga teacher training program ranges from $2,800 to $5,000, or even more, for a non-residential program, but because of competition, you may get some very good programs at lower prices. If you plan to attend a residential program, plan to add extra for food and lodging. Compare oranges to oranges. All RYT 200 programs have to maintain at least the required minimum standards!

In case of multiple modules, make sure you know exactly how many modules you must complete in order to get certified, and the minimum and maximum period for that. Add up the costs, or call the school and ask. Get all the information before you take the final plunge.

Many programs have separate fees for the following:

Certification testing

Required workshops or retreats

Yoga class passes

Study material

Practice material

Supplemental support (online videos, workshops, lectures)

Continuing education

SAVY offers RYT 200, RYT 500 and other courses at very competitive costs. For those who can’t afford the normal cost, we also offer Sponsored courses, Scholarships, bursaries etc.

CLARITY & FIT
Graduation requirements.

Many certification programs might require you just to show up for the training, and you’re certified. While this may be appealing to some, it’s better to actually learn something meaningful that will help and inspire you be a great teacher.

A good program will measure your proficiency at what you’ve learned before certifying you, much like when you were in college or high school. A good program will test your knowledge as well as your teaching skills before certifying you.

At SAVY, we help you build your knowledge base and test it before issuing a certificate.

Absence Policy

Unforeseen circumstances may crop up and interrupt your training. Check out the policy of the school about absences ahead of time. A good program will have attendance policy clearly explained in writing.

We have a clear policy regarding this at SAVY.

Know Your Teacher

Find a teacher who can inspire you. Take at least one class with the teacher you want to train with. Be sure before you commit. A good teacher with a good base will make you ready to adapt to any teaching style. There is only one Yoga though styles may be different. All that differs in different styles is the order of yoga postures. Basics always remain the same. So, finding a good, knowledgeable teacher, and not a style, should be your priority; sticking to one style right from the beginning might be too restrictive.

COMPETENCE

Sufficient program hours to adequately cover the curriculum

Opting for a quick certification might be intense. Less than four weeks duration might make it too challenging in view of long hours you’ll be required to put in. Go for it only if you think you can work that hard. Also, some pre-course preparation will be required. If you do not give enough time for the concepts to sink in, you might be ill-prepared to teach. Choose the format and schedule carefully.

We offer different formats at SAVY.

Recognition of credentials of the program

Some yoga teacher training programs are proprietary which means that you will be branded as a teacher by the school’s brand of teacher training. The plus side of this practice is that you’ll have a good chance at getting hired at one of their studios. The down side will be that other studios may not want to hire you.

You may want to consider a yoga teacher training programs that is not franchised or limited by its brand identity. For example, in usual teacher training programs, trainees gain proficiency in the sequencing method and use of voice. These methods equip the teacher to create well designed classes that are original, effective and that transcend brand identities. As a result, the graduates are confident to teach anywhere, in any style.

While the market is growing and more and more places are offering yoga, finding a teaching job in Yoga is no different than any other job search – it’s quite competitive. So, choose a program which doesn’t clip your wings and keeps your options wide open.

Your Options

Oftentimes, people learn about how convenient and cost-effective online learning programs are and then rule other options out. This is not a good idea. Why? Because in some situations, a traditional form of learning may be more advantageous. This can be the case in a situation where the aspiring yoga instructor is looking for hands-on experiences that cannot be offered by the online yoga program. Those who plan to become yoga instructors should also consider the value of hybrid classes in which there is a combination of online and in-person instruction. SAVY offers in-studio as well as hybrid programs.

THE ESSENCE OF THE SEARCH IS YOU!

In the last analysis, it all about YOU!

In Yoga they say you’ll find your Guru in front of you when you are ready to learn, and if you don’t have that burning desire to learn, even the most capable Guru won’t be able to do much for you! Only malleable clay can be molded into a good shape. Your dedication, devotion, desire to learn and passion will determine how much knowledge you can imbibe from your teacher. How much water you can put in a vessel will depend on the suitability and size of the vessel. You have to be thirsty for knowledge. To a person who doesn’t have appetite, even the most delicious dishes won’t have much appeal. Be interested. To succeed in anything, you have to give your 100% to it. A good Yoga Teacher Training program has to be a lot of hard work. Can you force someone to be an Olympic champion? That desire has to come from within. Are you ready to learn? Are you ready to work hard for it? Do you have that kind of devotion and dedication? Be clear about what you want from your YTT program and pay full attention to absorb all the available information.

If you are preparing to begin an exciting career in the field of Yoga instruction, you should know that doing so can help lead to a personally and professionally rewarding life. Obtaining Yoga certification from a good school is a great way to get the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in this vocational and now competitive sector. By following the guidelines outlined above, aspiring yoga instructors can make a good choice and take an important step toward attaining the education necessary to accomplish their vocational dreams.

Instructors helm 60-minute yoga classes, catering to basic, intermediate, and advanced levels or those seeking fitness-based training for running or golf or anything under the sun! They blend the flexibility-building postures of yoga with boot-camp-style cardio and strength-training exercises to make you completely fit.

SAVY Style of classical traditional Ashtanaga and Vinyasa yoga is a comprehensive system of personal development, encompassing the mind, body and spirit in the most wonderful and amazing way.

SAVY Yoga is one of the most complete, healthful and safe yoga routines!

This is THE YOGA FOR EVERYONE!

At SAVY Studio, we offer many different challenging as well as healing routines to suit personal preferences and requirements of different individuals.

Embrace tranquility with this offer.

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Yoga Fundamentals Series

SAVY Yoga has been serving the city of London and surrounding areas since 2011. To serve the people London in a better way, instead of serving some run-of-the-mill pseudo-yoga routines, we offer some very useful, true Yoga/ Pranayama routines, ranging from gentle to very challenging routines, for a beginner to an advanced student alike.

Here, we bring to you a new series of classes on Yoga Fundamentals which introduce you and clarify to you the benefits of authentic traditional ashtanga Yoga.